MESSAGE FROM THE KING TO PRESIDENT BUSH ON FTA

UNCLAS MANAMA 001454 SIPDIS DEPT FOR S/ES-CR AND NEA/ARPI E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OPDC PREL AMGT BA SUBJECT: MESSAGE FROM THE KING TO PRESIDENT BUSH ON FTA ¶1. (U) On September 15, 2004, post received a diplomatic note from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs covering a telegram from King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa to President Bush on the signing of the U.S.-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement. Original document is being sent by pouch to the desk. Begin text of telegram: 14th September, 2004 Dear Mr. Bush, I am most pleased to note the signing of the Free Trade Agreement between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States of America, another significant step forward in the development of the friendly and historic partnership between our two countries. The signing of this Agreement is a positive and clear outcome of transparency and cooperation on the road to peace, stability and further economic development. We are confident that this Agreement will be (sic) additional far reaching benefits to our two countries and peoples. May I reiterate, Mr. President, my great pleasure and send you my sincere congratulations on this historic occasion, with my warmest personal regards and best wishes to you and your family, and the people of the United States. Hamad bin Isa bin Salman Al-Khalifa King of Bahrain End text of telegram. MONROE