External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Monday called for exploring new areas of cooperation between India and Bahrain in emerging domains such as space, fintech, and technology, while reaffirming India’s full support for the Gaza Peace Plan for a lasting solution in the region.
In his opening remarks at the 5th India–Bahrain High Joint Commission (HJC) meeting with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Alzayani, Jaishankar highlighted the centuries-old friendship between the two countries, underpinned by strong trade linkages and people-to-people ties.
He said, “India and Bahrain share centuries-old ties of friendship underpinned by trade linkages and strong people-to-people ties. We also believe in a common goal and commitment for promoting peace and prosperity for our people and for our common region.”
“Since our last GCC meeting, we have made significant progress bilaterally in defence, security, trade and commerce, health, culture and people-to-people ties. We are also working on initiatives to strengthen cooperation in healthcare, deepen collaboration between our space agencies, and enhance cultural exchanges. At the same time, new areas such as space, fintech, and technology hold considerable promise for our relationship,” Jaishankar stated.
The Bahrain Foreign Minister arrived in the national capital earlier today for a two-day visit to co-chair the meeting aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
Jaishankar also highlighted the steady growth of bilateral trade and investment, encouraging Bahraini investors to explore opportunities in India.
“We welcome investors from Bahrain to come and explore investment opportunities in India. The conclusion of a bilateral investment treaty and the establishment of a joint working group on trade and investment will further boost our economic ties,” he said.
Highlighting India’s commitment to regional security, Jaishankar referred to the visit of three Indian naval ships to Bahrain in September 2025 and expressed gratitude to the country’s leadership for the welfare of the Indian community.
He also mentioned progress in healthcare and space cooperation between the two nations, alongside the launch of an electronic visa system earlier this year to encourage Bahraini visitors.
On regional issues, Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for the Gaza Peace Plan, emphasising the need for a lasting and durable solution.
“We thank the leadership of the Kingdom of Bahrain for taking care of the welfare of the Indian community. Let me also add that we have, at a regional level, seen unprecedented change not just in the region but globally. So I take the opportunity to reiterate our support for the Gaza Peace Plan, which we hope will lead to a lasting and durable solution,” the EAM said.
He congratulated Bahrain on the successful conclusion of the 21st Manama Dialogue and extended best wishes for its upcoming GCC Summit presidency, expressing hope for further intensifying India–GCC cooperation.
“We look forward to your support for further intensifying India–GCC cooperation,” he added.
Prior to their meeting, Jaishankar welcomed the Bahraini Foreign Minister to New Delhi, saying he looked forward to productive discussions at the High Joint Commission meeting.
“Pleased to welcome FM Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Alzayani of Bahrain to New Delhi. Look forward to productive discussions of the 5th India–Bahrain High Joint Commission,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.
— (ANI)