MANAMA: His Majesty King Hamad received Nato secretary-general Anders Fogh Rasmussen at Al Safriya Palace yesterday and discussed ways of boosting relations and exchanging hi-tech expertise.

They also discussed exchanging intelligence to bolster security and stability and promote regional and global peace.

The Nato chief thanked His Majesty for hosting key conferences and stressed Nato's keenness to bolster relations with Bahrain.

Mr Rasmussen hailed Bahrain's role as an active contribution to promote peace and security in the Arabian Gulf, the Middle East and the world.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, was yesterday invited to visit Nato headquarters and outline his concept of regional and global security and moderation.

Mr Rasmussen extended the invitation during an audience at Riffa Palace. Mr Rasmussen described HRH the Crown Prince as one of the most outstanding leaders advocating dialogue between civilisations and religions.

The Crown Prince stressed Nato's crucial political and military roles.

Mr Rasmussen pointed out the vital role of Bahrain in achieving security and stability in the strategic Gulf region.

He described Bahrain's role as essential, constructive and lasting in preserving balance and stability in the region.