Bahrain and Syria sign memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in disaster risk reduction and civil protection

Syria and Bahrain signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance bilateral cooperation in the field of disaster risk reduction and civil protection, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). The agreement was signed on behalf of the Bahraini side by First Class General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, and on behalf of the Syrian side by Raed Al-Saleh, Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management.

The memorandum aims to leverage the expertise and resources available to both parties, particularly Bahraini experience, to support the development of Syria’s national capacities in emergency preparedness and disaster response.

Areas of cooperation include training and capacity-building for Syrian personnel in emergency management, risk assessment, and civil protection; providing technical and advisory support to develop national emergency plans and disaster risk reduction strategies; strengthening civil and community protection systems; and supporting post-disaster recovery efforts.

Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management Raed Al-Saleh clarified in a post on the X platform that the signing of the memorandum of understanding falls within the framework of enhancing cooperation between the two countries in emergency management and disaster risk reduction, contributing to the exchange of expertise, capacity building, and the development of civil protection systems. He emphasized the importance of regional partnerships in improving readiness and enhancing the ability to confront disasters.

The Bahraini Minister of Interior had previously conveyed a message sent by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, to Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

During the visit, First Class General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, met with Syrian Interior Minister Anas al-Khattab, who affirmed his country’s support for the security measures undertaken by the Kingdom of Bahrain to safeguard its security and enhance its stability.