Southern West Virginia News

Today, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) reintroduced the bipartisan Strengthening Cooperation and Security in the Middle East Act with Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA). The legislation aims to study the benefits of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (CSIPA) and explore how its framework can be adjusted to encourage more countries to join.

“It’s critical that we enhance the relationship with our allies in the Middle East to promote trade opportunities, collaborate on technology initiatives, and neutralize Iranian proxies that have taken American lives and disrupted global supply chains. Encouraging other countries to join Bahrain in the CSIPA will allow us all to work together to strengthen our nations’ economic ties and enhance national security through investment in technology. Our legislation will promote peace through strength by bolstering relationships with our allies, and I look forward to ensuring that CSIPA is aligned with American interests,” said Congresswoman Miller.

Congressman Panetta added, “Our partners in the Middle East continue to confront growing threats, from the expansion of violent extremism to the destabilizing activities of Iran and its proxies. By reintroducing this bipartisan legislation, we are reinforcing our commitment to joint research, mutual defense, economic prosperity, and technological cooperation between the United States and Bahrain, a key strategic ally in the region. Strengthening this partnership and encouraging further integration with like-minded nations will help counter terror, enhance regional stability, and promote greater economic security in the Middle East."

The United States signed CSIPA with Bahrain in 2023 as a framework for cooperation on security, technology, and investment initiatives. It played a crucial role during Houthi violence in the Red Sea. Expanding CSIPA could help stabilize other parts of the region. In December 2024, it was announced that the United Kingdom intends to join CSIPA.

The bill would require a report from the Secretary of State outlining strategies for increasing membership within CSIPA.

In addition to this act, Congresswoman Miller previously introduced a resolution aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties with Bahrain during her tenure in the 118th Congress.