Jordan, Bahrain agree to cooperate in air defence

AMMAN – His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday met with King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, during which talks focused on ways to further strengthen ties at all levels. 

The two leaders voiced their satisfaction with the "advanced" level of relations between the two countries, according to a Royal Court statement. 

In a broader meeting attended by senior officials from both kingdoms, the two sides discussed the latest regional developments, especially efforts to combat terrorism and extremism to safeguard regional security and stability.

King Abdullah and the Bahraini king underlined that the war on terrorism seeks to protect Islam and its image as a faith of tolerance and moderation from the "brutality" of the so-called Islamic State (IS) terrorist group.

Discussions also focused on ways to foster cooperation between the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and the Bahraini defence force, particularly in the area of air defence.

A squadron of F-16 jet fighters of the United Arab Emirates air force arrived at Royal Jordanian Air Force bases on Sunday to reinforce Jordan’s air power as the country intensified its campaign against IS, in retaliation for the killing of captured pilot Muath Kasasbeh.

The United States welcomed Abu Dhabi’s decision to base F-16 jet fighters in Jordan for operations against IS militants in Iraq and Syria, a US State Department spokeswoman said on Monday, quoted by Reuters.

King Hamad offered his deepest sympathies over the death of Kasasbeh, who he said “paid his life in defence for his country and religion against the terrorist criminals who harmed the image of Islam”. 

He voiced appreciation of Jordan’s support for Bahrain in its efforts to develop its institutions and army, expressing his “pride” in the unity Jordanians have exhibited, and their collective strength as they work to overcome crises and challenges. 

King Abdullah noted that Bahrain has always been a supporter of Jordan. 

The two leaders highlighted the latest developments in Syria and Iraq, and the need to improve coordination vis-à-vis Arab causes. 

Also on Monday, His Majesty held a lunch banquet in honour of King Hamad and the accompanying delegation, who were seen off by King Abdullah and a number of senior officials, according to the statement.