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