Statement by NSC Spokesperson Caitlin Hayden on Deputy National Security Advisor Tony Blinken’s Meeting with Bahraini Crown Prince and First Deputy Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa

President Obama joined Deputy National Security Advisor Tony Blinken’s meeting today with Bahraini Crown Prince and First Deputy Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa.  The President reaffirmed the importance of the United States’ partnership with Bahrain and our commitment to further strengthening the ties between our two countries.  The President congratulated the Crown Prince on his appointment as First Deputy Prime Minister, and wished him success in this new role.

The President emphasized U.S. support for Bahrain’s stability and security, and stressed that meaningful reform, dialogue, and respect for universal human rights is the best path to achieving the peace and security that all Bahraini citizens deserve.  The President conveyed the United States’ firm support for Bahrain’s National Dialogue, launched by King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, and noted that the United States continues to encourage all sides to engage constructively to achieve progress.  The President commended the Crown Prince’s commitment to advancing reform in Bahrain, and underscored that the United States will continue to support these efforts.  A photo of the meeting can be found HERE.