Islam Times - Bahrain farce - Al Khalifa talks of democratic progress with US official

Islam Times - Amir more reports of human rights violations and horrors committed against the people of Bahrain, Minister of Interior Lt-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa received on Wednesday US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Ambassador Anne Patterson and her accompanying delegation.

Chief of Public Security Major-General Tariq Al Hassan and American Ambassador Thomas Krajeski also attended the meeting.

The Minister stressed on the importance of cooperation and coordination between Bahrain and the United States, especially in the security field. He added that “the democratic initiatives in Bahrain and the political and legislative reforms were part of the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.”

The irony of the situation further incensed political activists as such comments were made as Bahrain security forces continue to relentlessly crackdown against the Shia community, intent on silencing their cries for liberties and democracy.

Adding that the community partnership represents a basic element in the development and modernisation strategy of the Interior Ministry.

Both sides also discussed issues of common interest.

The Public Security Chief briefed the US official on the security situation in Bahrain and the Interior Ministry’s development and modernisation strategy through intensive training, the use of cutting-edge technology and benefiting from other countries' experiences.