Lieutenant General His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Advisor and Royal Guard Commander, attended the honouree reception and the Golden Plate Award banquet as the guest of honour, hosted by the American Academy of Achievement, as part of His Highness’s visit to Washington D.C., in the presence of His Highness Shaikh Hamad bin Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the accompanying delegation, with the participation of a select group of leaders, decision-makers, intellectuals, scientists, entrepreneurs and prominent international figures.

His Highness delivered a speech during the ceremony, in which he expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to Wayne and Catherine Reynolds for their outstanding efforts and inspiring vision in founding the American Academy of Achievement, and for the pioneering role it plays in honouring achievers, inspiring younger generations and empowering them to build a more prosperous future. His Highness noted that such international initiatives embody the importance of investing in people and innovation and fostering a culture of excellence while enhancing cooperation among people.

His Highness affirmed that the long-standing historical relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States of America is a model of strategic partnership based on mutual trust, respect and shared interests, explaining that the challenges and changes currently facing the Middle East highlight the importance of strengthening cooperation and coordination between friendly nations, to consolidate security and stability. His Highness noted that the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) is an important strategic pillar that helped enhance cooperation and develop the partnership between the two countries in priority areas.

His Highness also highlighted the strength of the Bahraini-U.S. partnership and its ability to tackle shared challenges, reiterating the Kingdom of Bahrain’s pride in this strategic relationship and its commitment to continuing joint action towards a more peaceful, prosperous and developed future.

His Highness extended a personal invitation to those present, saying: “We welcome your ideas, your partnerships and your friendship. I invite you to visit Bahrain, to engage with its people, and to experience first-hand a nation that believes deeply in innovation, opportunity and international partnership. It would be our honour to welcome you”.