Friendship and Support

In light of Iran's inappropriate remarks regarding Bahrain and the potential union of GCC states, one needs to step back and evaluate, as country music starts Tracy Lawrence, Kenny Chesney, and Tim McGraw sing, "find out who your friends are."

Iran has interceded, unwelcomed, and tried to claim Bahrain as their own.  Bahrain is in serious discussion with the other GCC states, specifically Saudi Arabia, regarding a union that would protect them all from actions like those Iran have made.

Bahrain is about to find out who its friend are, and the United States will assuredly step up.  There is too much as stake to NOT step up if that action is required.  A take over by Iran of Bahrain would mean the evacuation of the US Navy Fifth Fleet from the area and the eventual take over of the Strait of Hormuz.  Iran would virtually be undisputed in that region, and would begin to take control of each GCC country, one by one.  Trade in between the US and the Arab nations would be greatly disturbed, if not completely eliminated.  There is no telling what could happen if Iran's wishes came true.  Their vehement hatred towards America would know no boundaries.

Why is the friendship between the United States and Bahrain so important?  One, there is strength in numbers.  Bahrain and the United States will support each other against the onslaught of enemies.  If it came down to a fight, US and Bahrain would be side by side.  Two, prevention is the best protection.  The US Naval Fifth Fleet is stationed in Bahrain, by their invitation and welcoming consent.  This not only provides protection to the kingdom of Bahrain, but also provides protection to the US.  They, US and Bahrain together, are able to keep a close eye on Iran.

If Iran is ever able to take over Bahrain, and subsequently the GCC nations, they will more than likely have to go through the United States to do it.  Bahrain could be at the point where they find out who their friends truly are, and the United States will answer!

Service

The foundation of a relationship is service.  It breeds compassion.  It strengthens friendships and loyalties.  It opens the doors for others of future generations to do the same.  It produces thankful hearts that desire to reciprocate the kindness and service.  Thus, we see the cycle of service, thankfulness, reciprocation, thankfulness, service, thankfulness, etc.

The Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States are connected by this very simple, yet complex principle.  It's not hard to be kind to someone.  But it is hard to risk your life for someone else.  Bahrain and America not only have kindness between them, but loyalties that lead to sacrifice and service.

The perfect example of this happened this past week.  His Majesty, King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, met with Admiral Mark I Fox of the US Naval Fifth Fleet that is stationed in Bahrain.  Admiral Fox has served faithfully and loyally as the leading officer of the United States Naval Forces Central Command, which includes the Fifth Fleet, and has strengthened relationships between the United States and Bahrain through his service.  

Fox will be leaving this post in the near future, and as a gesture of thanks, His Highness the King presented Admiral Fox with the First Class Medal, recognizing the efforts of Fox in building strong bilateral relationships and cooperation between the US Navy and government, and their counterparts in Bahrain.

In response, Fox lauded the King for his continued efforts of bilateral relationships and praised the fruitful cooperation of the Bahrain Defense Force while he was serving in Bahrain.

Why is this so important to both countries?  Quite simple.  One, by Fox's great efforts, and exceptional reputation in Bahrain, the door is open for the next commanding officer.  Because of Fox, he will have a foundation on which to work.  Because of the efforts made by the government of Bahrain, the new officer will enter a friendly environment where he can trust the King and the government wholeheartedly.

Another reason that these relationships are so important is the station of the Fifth Fleet.  With strong relationships, the United States is able to stay in Bahrain, protecting the Strait of Hormuz, and thus, Bahrain and other Arab nations from Iran.  With this close proximity to Iran, the US is also able to keep a close eye on Iran and its activities.  

Therefore, it's not only important to Bahrain that the US is there, but it's important the US is there for the US and the rest of the world.

This is only possible because of people like Admiral Mark Fox and His Highness, King Hamad.  

Tourism

The world is a big place.  It's full of exciting things to see and experience.  When we travel places, there is a subconscious urge that pushes us to learn about the place we are visiting, the people that live there, and their stories (also known as "history").  So as I say, "Why not have some fun while you are learning?"

The Kingdom of Bahrain is touted as the best place to visit in the Arab world.  The Lonely Planet Guide describes is as "an excellent introduction to the Gulf" not only because it's rich in heritage and history, but also because it's a safe place to visit.  So let's explore a little of the island country.

Being an island nation, obviously there are several beaches to visit, most of which are private.  There is a large variety of things to do at the beach.  Even more for the water lover, there is the largest water park in the Middle East, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark.

To learn about history, there is no better place to go than to a museum.  Bahrain has two that stand out above all others, the Bahrain National Museum and the Beit Al Qur'an.  The national museum boasts not just years and centuries of artifacts, but millenia of artifacts.  Some of their exhibits can date back to the first human inhabitants, over 9000 years ago!  The Beit Al Qur'an, itself a piece of architectural history, is home to a rare collection of manuscripts and books.  

One of the most lucrative attractions in Bahrain is the Formula 1 Car Race held at the Bahrain International Circuit.  People from all over the world flock to Manama to watch the race each year!

The United States is no different in their tourist attractions.

  Touring the United States from coast to coast, one may start in the "city that never sleeps" in New York to shop and watch a Yankee game or Broadway show; travel down the coast and stop in Disney World in Florida; make your way to California, the land of stars.  

And the attractions in between New York and California are just as amazing.

So why is tourism so important to both countries.  There are few reasons.  One, revenue.  Two, understanding.  Three, friendship.

With Americans traveling to Bahrain to "see the sights," Bahrain is impacted by the money spent and the services that they will be able to provide.  They are creating revenue for their citizens, that in turn, will get circulated into their economy, strengthening it as it gets used.  In turn, Bahraini people will have enough money to travel to the United States and vacation with their families.  All of the sudden, their money is being circulated into the US economy, helping and strengthening it.  It all comes round in full circle.

Two is understanding.  Ignorance is a destructive tool.  Many fights could be avoided by simple understanding.  That is a principle that works not only on the school yard playground, but also in the global community.  If people can begin to understand the lifestyle of someone else, learn why they are the way they are, a tolerance can be developed.  

Reason number two segways into reason three, and that is friendship.  When understanding reaches a certain point, tolerance becomes appreciation, and even admiration.  A friendship can be formed as people visit each other's countries.  It's a kind stranger who helps a foreigner with directions.  It's a friendly conversation that turns into an invitation to dinner.

As the United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain continue to visit eachother, the economy is strengthened, an understanding is reached, and a friendship is forged.  Once again, we see the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States of America intertwined for not only their own good, but for their common good.

Freedom of Religion

Religion is a sensitive subject for much of the world.  Some go so far as putting faith into a "taboo" category, not talking about it with anyone.  Others "wear their beliefs on their sleeves."  Whatever group you may fall in, both the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States of America give right of worship to the people.
In Article 22 of the Bahraini Constitution, freedom of religion is addressed.  Bahrain has declared that the national religion is Islam, however, this does not limit those of other faiths or force them into a religion they do not believe or wish to follow.  Bahrain does not have a history of forced conversion.    while the strong majority of the people are of some branch of Islam, Bahrain is home to Christians, just as it is home to Jews, just as it is home to Muslims.  Each religious group must have a permit to exist and function, but permits are not denied.  In fact, there are no records of permits ever being denied.
The United States is a country that was founded on fundamental beliefs, one of which was the freedom of religion.  The Constitution of the country states that there will be no national religion, and no law that would impede freedom of religion for any group or any singular person.  Religious tolerance has been a general characteristic of the US since its founding.

This is not to say that each country has been perfectly accepting of all beliefs of all people.  But it is to say that they respect all people, and the strong majority of the citizens of the country show that respect through tolerance and acceptance.
Why is freedom of religion so important to the relationship between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States?  Quite simply, religion cultivates, shapes, and transforms cultures.  It has the power and influence to not only define and guide routine and action, but it can become a way of life.  If true harmony is to exist, and true friendship be established, we must not only be tolerate, but accepting of the beliefs of others.  This does not mean we have to agree on what is taught, but we must accept that someone may believe differently than another, and show compassion for that difference.  If people are to live together in peace and help each other, they must understand each other on the basic levels of humanity and spirituality.  We must accept each other for who we are and what we believe.

The Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States is a good example of how differences of religion need not interfere, but can be celebrated.  Bahrain is home to Christians, which is predominantly a Western religion.  In the like manner, the US is home to Muslims, most of them originating from the East.  For the most part, they live and interact in peace.  This allows us to get to know eachother, become friends, and happily co exist.  It is no coincidence that two countries, each with a declaration of freedom of religion, have been able to establish not only friendly relationships, but have been able to help each other on so many other levels.  This basic understanding of someone's way life as defined by their religious convictions is the foundational building block upon which everything else is built.

To be able to understand the beliefs of someone, and appreciate their individual right to believe, doors of friendship open.  Whatever your belief, let us all continue to believe that each has a human right to worship and believe is they feel, and respect, honor, and celebrate that belief.  That is the only way to ensure continued peace.

Education

What this one word represents to people is invaluable.  To the oppressed, it represents freedom.  To the weak, it represents power.  To the ignorant, it represents knowledge.  To the knowledgeable, it represents wisdom.  To the stagnate, it represents progress.  Education is the key to success in any aspect of life.
The Kingdom of Bahrain is very aware of the power of education.  
Shaik Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa, CE of Bahrain Economic Development Board, addressed an audience at The Education Project, and stressed the importance of education for the people of Bahrain.  He said, "Our common vision is that we should all have access to a decent education. For education, in our world, is the passport to employment and income and personal independence...We know that education is the single most important factor in helping to improve stability, productivity and prosperity in all societies...The Education Project seeks to foster a dialogue amongst the world’s foremost educational leaders and pioneers in order to work towards solutions.  Solutions that are tangible, practical, and affordable."
The United States has a vested interest in the education of the people of Bahrain.  Knowing that the US Navy Fifth Fleet is stationed in Bahrain, along with the Free Trade Agreement, the US depends on the Bahraini people to do their part in "helping to improve stability...in all societies."  The understanding that exists between these two countries must be sincere and complete if stability is to be achieved.  
The continued education also provides more opportunities for trade.  Innovation and new systems and products are essential to compete in an international commercial society.  Without education, products and services would be sought for in other countries.
Possibly the most important reason that the United States is interested in the education of the people of Bahrain is personal independence.  Democracy exists and is successful only upon the backs, and in the minds, of the people.  It's a choice, it's individual.  One can not be free or independent without education and knowledge.  As Bahrain is pushing for a positive democratic reform, education is essential.  There are some protests thats could be avoided only through education.  The United States, as the leader of the democratic world, fights for the independence of all who desire it.  Bahrain understands what it wants, and that is independence.  

On the flip side, Bahrain is very interested in the education of the people of the United States for all the same reasons.  However, possibly the most important piece of education that the Kingdom of Bahrain wants America to have is the true knowledge of the government reform and movement towards democracy.  Without proper information, opinions are compromised.  A fair assessment of the situation can not be made, and that is how prejudice begins.  The Kingdom of Bahrain depends on the United States to educate itself so it understands what is happening in Bahrain, and how to best help Bahrain as they progress through their democratic education.
Another obvious evidence of the interest that these two countries have in each other's education is the exchange programs and institutions in the countries.  American students travel to Bahrain to further their education, and vice versa.  If these two countries were not interested in the other's education, why would that be available?
Once again, we learn that the United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain are intertwined.  They are linked together for their own good, and the good of each other, this time in education.

Democracy

It is no secret that there has been some problems in the Middle East centered around the government.  It's also no secret that there are two sides to every story.  One side is usually the more romantic, extreme, and televised.  The other side is often overlooked and even ridiculed, though it may be the most true.
That is what we are seeing in Bahrain right now.  The Royal Family, led by His Majesty, King Hamad al Khalifa, is looking to serve his people by giving them a democratic style government.  Many reject his sincere attempts and proposals.  But one friend and ally that will not reject their transition is the United States of American.
The US, a friend and defender of freedom, has stood by Bahrain as they have implemented changes in their government and have made amendments to their constitution.  The latter is proof of the great desire of the King to phase in democracy.  Amendments to their constitution has never happened before, and these amendments were to the benefit of the people, giving them more power.  It was a great gesture of the faith His Majesty has in his people.
The United States, no doubt, support these amendments and these changes.  The US, as the "big brother" to all that desire and fight for freedom (literally or figuratively), will continue to support the Kingdom of Bahrain in its good endeavors towards freedom for its people.

How important is the relationship between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States?  Essential!  If Bahrain wants freedom (and they do), they will have an uphill battle against other countries and neighbors (and they have).  But the United States will be there to help Bahrain!

Entertainment

In light of the upcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix Race in Bahrain, it seems only fitting to share ways that the United States of America and the Kingdom of Bahrain are, once again, teaming up to produce something positive.  However, this is something special because of the characters involved.  This is not just about the US and Bahrain.  This has come to a global audience, and believe me when I say, the world is taking notice.
With the unrest in Bahrain, many have been fearful of the upcoming event, assuming that it will be a place of protest instead of a venue of entertainment.  This would be devastating to the Kingdom of Bahrain because the F1 Race has been its most profitable international event of the year since 2004.  However, athletes and entertainers from the United States and around the world are supporting the Bahraini event, thus expressing their support to the Kingdom.

Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel, 

famous German race car drivers for Mercedez Benz 

and Red Bull respectively, have given their 

support of the decision by the government of 

Bahrain to proceed with the event.  

Both Schumacher and Vettel will be competing in the race.

What is an event without some music?  LMFAO, American electro pop duo, has committed to be the main entertainment attraction at the event later this month.  The makers of "Party Rock Anthem" will certainly have the audience shuffling as they support Bahrain through their participation.

Because of the participation of the global community, and the assurance from the Crown Prince, the Formula 1 Grand Prix race will not only prove to be safe, but it will prove to be one of the greatest successes of the year for the Kingdom of Bahrain, and for the world.  Sure, it will follow suit as the greatest profitable event for the country.  But more importantly, it will bring positive feelings and reinforcement to the people that Bahrain cares about all its people.
Many would say, "what is the purpose of a sports event and concert in the midst of unrest and protest?  It seems so inconsequential and unimportant, and out of place."  However, to these people, it's quite the opposite.  This gives them an outlet to remember everything right in the world.  Global friendship and involvement, dreams coming true, and good competition is what the Kingdom of Bahrain supports, encourages, and desires for all its countrymen.  That is why they are having this event.
One may ask, "Well, what's in it for everyone else?"  Quite simply, the kingdom of Bahrain is where these athletes and entertainers have the chance to continue chasing dreams.  Whether it be to win a car race, or become a popular rock band, these talented people have a chance to put their talent on showcase in Bahrain.  It's a beautiful gift.
Once again, we see how the US and Bahrain are closely connected as they strive to help each other in different ways.  This time, the world is coming along for the ride!  So strap in, start your engines, and party rock!