Bahrain King hails India's key role in global security, peace

Bahrain's King Hamad Al Khalifa has hailed steadily-growing cooperation and deep-rooted historic relations with India and its pivotal role in maintaining international security, stability and peace.
King's comments came as he met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during which they discussed regional and international issues and developments of common interest.
During the meeting on Saturday, Swaraj conveyed to the King greetings and appreciation from President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wished Bahrain further progress and prosperity.
The King also extended greetings to President Mukherjee, Prime Minister Modi, wishing the friendly Indian people further progress and prosperity.
Hamad hailed steadily-growing cooperation and deep-rooted historic relations which are based on mutual respect and joint coordination, citing his successful visit to India in February, which contributed to bolstering joint ties and heralding new horizons for fruitful and constructive cooperation on all levels, Bahrain News Agency reported.

Bahrain is an important partner for India in the Gulf with bilateral trade in 2013-14 exceeding USD 1.3 billion.

Hamad also commended joint coordination regarding key regional and international issues at different world arenas, hailing the pivotal role of India and its contribution to maintaining international security, stability and peace.
The King paid tribute to the 350,000 Indian expatriates in the country for their role in pushing forward progress and development, which contributed to Bahrain's strides in all sectors.
"The Indian migrants are welcomed and appreciated by all in Bahrain," Hamad said.
Swaraj was on a two-day visit to Bahrain from September 6. It was her first visit to the Gulf region after taking over office.

During the visit, Swaraj held talks with her counterpart Shaikh Khalid Al Khalifa.