Monday, 18 January 2021, Washington D.C., United States of America: The White House bestowed the presidential honour ‘Legion of Merit’ with the rank of Chief Commander upon Bahrain’s monarch, His Majesty King Hamad II bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa.
The award was came after the Kingdom of Bahrain was upgraded by the US State Department as a ‘major security partner’ of the USA. The latter designation as is a status unique to the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain. It recognizes the exceptional security partnership—exemplified by their hosting thousands of United States Soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines—and the commitment of each country to countering violent extremism across the region.
King Hamad II (b. 28 January 1950) is Bahrain’s head of state since 6 March 1999, firstly as the country’s second Emir, and since 14 February 2002 as his homeland’s first King. His spouse, HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa is known for her role in advancing societal participation of women as President of the Supreme Council for Women.
For further information
White House: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/statement-press-secretary-regarding-designations-uae-kingdom-bahrain-major-strategic-partners-united-states/
Bahrain News Agency stated by Royal Adviser for Diplomacy, HE Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa: https://www.bna.bh/en/TopawardrecognisesHMKingswisepoliciessaysDiplomaticAdvisor.aspx?cms=q8FmFJgiscL2fwIzON1%2bDmTDN48pVz00SXywPrtIYFQ%3d
