Bahrain and France Discuss Strengthening Security Cooperation

Paris, The Gulf Observer: General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Interior, met with Laurent Nunez, Chief of Police of the City of Paris, to discuss enhancing security cooperation and coordination between Bahrain and France. Nunez affirmed the significance of the minister’s visit in achieving common strategic and security objectives.

General Shaikh Rashid praised the strong relations between Bahrain and France, emphasizing their shared commitment to improving law enforcement collaboration. He highlighted that stability and security in Bahrain are sustained through the vision and leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with ongoing support from the government led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, and Prime Minister.

In light of global security challenges, the minister stressed the importance of international collaboration and coordination, leveraging modern programs and technologies to prevent crimes. He commended French expertise in medical emergencies, noting its significant contribution to establishing Bahrain’s National Ambulance Service in collaboration with the French Centre for Emergency Medical Assistance.

Both parties agreed to establish a joint committee that will meet regularly to monitor progress, coordinate efforts, and facilitate the ongoing exchange of expertise. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in various security fields, including homeland security, civil defence, and combating economic crimes, with an emphasis on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) applications to combat crime more effectively.

Discussions also covered cooperation in traffic management, judicial police operations, financial investigations, and combating cybercrime and cross-border crimes. Additionally, General Shaikh Rashid visited the French Ministry of Interior, where he was briefed on security preparations for the Paris Summer Olympics, scheduled from July 26 to August 11.

During his visit to the operations room at the French Ministry of Interior, the minister observed the command-and-control centre, patrol management and monitoring system, and the distribution of patrols to ensure quick responses to reports and distress calls. He was also introduced to the “smart security prediction” system for anticipating future crimes and informed about the latest initiatives and innovations in counter-crime measures.

Furthermore, the minister met with Lieutenant General Christian Rodriguez, Director General of the French National Gendarmerie. General Shaikh Rashid praised the French National Gendarmerie Forces for their security performance and the existing cooperation between Bahrain and France in the police field. He also commended the French police services for their achievements in combating crime and adapting technologies and AI applications in crime prevention programs.

This visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthening their strategic partnership and enhancing their capabilities to address evolving security challenges.