The Manama Dialogue is a summit for security representatives from Arabian Gulf States and other international powers to discuss issues related to regional security and stability.
Gates said there were a number of issues to be addressed at the conference.
"I obviously have a few things to say in my remarks on Saturday." Gates said. "I have a number of bilateral meetings scheduled, and we'll be covering the full range of regional security issues."
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Seth Clarke, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet Public Affairs
MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates visited Bahrain to attend the International Institute for Strategic Studies Manama Dialogue security forum beginning Dec. 7.
While in the island kingdom, Gates met with Vice Adm. Kevin Cosgriff, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/5th Fleet, as well as the King of Bahrain, His Royal Highness Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and other senior U.S. and Gulf officials at NAVCENT.
The Manama Dialogue is a summit for security representatives from Arabian Gulf States and other international powers to discuss issues related to regional security and stability.
Gates said there were a number of issues to be addressed at the conference.
"I obviously have a few things to say in my remarks on Saturday." Gates said. "I have a number of bilateral meetings scheduled, and we'll be covering the full range of regional security issues."
Gates visited USS Vicksburg (CG 69) at Mina Salman port Dec. 6, where he toured the ship, reenlisted a Sailor and spent time talking to Vicksburg's crew. The tour was Gates' first ever aboard a cruiser.
"It was a great trip on board the Vicksburg," Gates said. "Although I've been on aircraft carriers, I've never been on any other warship, so it was great to see a cruiser."
Gates said he particularly enjoyed the time he spent talking to the Sailors on board the ship.
"I spent about half an hour with 20 members of the crew. It was really interesting," Gates said. "Most of the questions were about Russia, China, Iran. I felt like I was teaching a political science course. I was very impressed by the young people that are on the crew, and by the ship and its capabilities."
