EAM co-chairs 4th High Joint Commission meeting with Bahraini counterpart in Manama

NEW DELHI, Dec 9 : External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar co-chaired the Fourth India-Bahrain High Joint Commission meeting alongside his Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani in Manama today, during which they discussed new opportunities in the field of space, education, FinTech and technology.

EAM also met Bahraini Deputy PM Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and thanked his government for looking after the welfare of the Indian community.

In his opening remarks during the holding of the High Joint Commission, the EAM said that under the leadership of the Bahrain ruler the bilateral ties have moved from strength to strength.

“Our continued meetings and the high-level interactions that have taken place testify to the strong bonds of friendship between us, and the bonds of friendship forged over time very deeply between our societies. Our task today is to build on those driven by our common commitment to peace, security and the pursuit of development and prosperity of our peoples and the region.”

“We see great potential in field of space, education, fintech, science and technology,” he said, adding that the two sides have made significant progress in trade and investment and would like to develop the positive momentum.

“India welcomes investors from Bahrain to come and explore opportunities in India,” he added.

Terming Bahrain as a valuable partner in the Gulf region, the EAM expressed appreciation in the manner in which the Indian community has been looked after.

“West Asia is a region of deep strategic interest to India and in recent times it is a region where there is a cause of deep concern, particularly over the conflict in Gaza,” he said, adding that India condemns acts of terrorism and loss of civilian lives in the conflict. “We believe in adherence to international humanitarian law. We call for an early ceasefire and release of all hostages. India has consistently supported the Palestinian issue for a two-state solution, and we have also contributed to the building of Palestinian institutions.”

In posts on X, the EAM said: “Glad to meet DPM Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa of Bahrain today. Value his insights for taking forward our cooperation. Thanked his Government for ensuring the welfare of the Indian community.”

“Pleased to co-chair the 4th India – Bahrain High Joint Commission meeting alongside FM Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani in Manama today.

“Took stock of our bilateral relationship focusing on trade, investments, healthcare, energy, security, tourism and people to people ties.

“Also exchanged views on recent developments in the region.”

(UNI)