Intense efforts on to form 'Arab NATO'

Efforts towards the formation of the strategic regional security alliance dubbed as the ‘Arab NATO’ will move forward rapidly in the next one year, according to top officials. GCC countries in addition to Egypt and Jordan in partnership with the US will form the Middle East Strategic Alliance (MESA) which has been dubbed as the ‘Arab NATO’.

The alliance which has been described as a ‘security architecture’ is expected to provide security for the region against common threats. Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, who was speaking at the Manama Dialogue, was keen to underscore the importance of MESA stating that it is not “against anyone” but an “alliance for security and prosperity in the region” which is open to those who accept its principles.

“Through MESA we aim to boost the collective security of the region and to make sure our defense partnerships are ready to withstand the challenges of the 21st century including terrorism, cybersecurity, and the effects of rogue states.