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India-Bahrain Friendship: Centuries-Old Ties Amid New Tech Partnerships

India and Bahrain are celebrating their centuries-old friendship with renewed energy. Both countries are expanding cooperation beyond traditional areas into exciting new fields like space and fintech. The relationship has seen concrete progress with Indian naval visits and new visa systems. This partnership continues to grow stronger with shared goals for regional peace and prosperity.

Key Points: Jaishankar Bahrain Strengthen Trade Defence Space Cooperation

  • Both nations committed to promoting regional peace and prosperity through strengthened cooperation
  • Significant progress made in defence, security, trade and cultural exchanges
  • New partnerships emerging in space technology, fintech and healthcare initiatives
  • Indian Navy ships visited Bahrain reinforcing maritime security cooperation
  • Electronic visa system launched to encourage more Bahraini visitors to India
3 min read

India, Bahrain share centuries-old friendship, committed to peace, prosperity: EAM Jaishankar

EAM Jaishankar highlights India-Bahrain's centuries-old friendship, expanding cooperation in defence, space, fintech and trade during High Joint Commission meeting.

"India and Bahrain share centuries-old ties of friendship underpinned by trade linkages and strong people-to-people ties. - EAM S. Jaishankar"

New Delhi, Nov 3

Highlighting the enduring partnership between India and Bahrain, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Monday addressed the 5th India–Bahrain High Joint Commission meeting in New Delhi alongside Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, stating that the two nations are bound by a centuries-old friendship rooted in trade linkages and strong people-to-people ties.

He underscored that both countries share a common goal of promoting peace and prosperity for their people in the region.

"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 HJC meeting, we have made significant progress bilaterally in defence, security, trade & commerce, health, culture, and people-to-people ties. But there are new areas such as space, fintech and technology that hold considerable promise for our partnership," EAM Jaishankar said.

He also congratulated Bahrain on the successful conduct of the 21st Manama Dialogue and extended his best wishes as the country prepares to assume the presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at the upcoming GCC Summit in Manama next month. Jaishankar expressed hope that with Bahrain’s support, the cooperation between India and the GCC would be further strengthened.

Highlighting the maritime cooperation between India and Bahrain, Jaishankar further said, “India has been active in the Combined Maritime Forces based in Manama. In September 2025, three Indian naval ships had visited Bahrain, which helped to reinforce bilateral friendship and the Indian Navy’s commitment to regional maritime security."

Jaishankar emphasised that India and Bahrain have witnessed a steady growth of bilateral trade and investment ties.

“We welcome investors from Bahrain to come and explore investment opportunities in India. Conclusion of a Bilateral Investment Treaty, and the establishment of a Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment will further boost our economic ties,” Jaishankar stated.

“ We are working on various initiatives to strengthen our cooperation in the field of healthcare. Our space agencies are also making progress for deepening their collaboration. We have a vibrant cooperation in the area of culture and strong people-to-people ties. Earlier this year, we launched the electronic visa system for Bahraini nationals. This, I hope, will encourage more visitors from Bahrain,” he added.

Reiterating New Delhi’s support for the Gaza peace plan, Jaishankar expressed hope that it would pave the way for a lasting and durable solution in the region.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As someone working in IT, I'm excited about the fintech collaboration opportunities. Bahrain has a strong financial sector and India's tech talent can create amazing synergies. Great move!
M
Michael C
The maritime security cooperation is crucial for regional stability. Indian Navy's presence in the Gulf helps protect vital shipping lanes that affect global trade. Good strategic partnership.
A
Ananya R
While I appreciate the positive developments, I hope we see more concrete outcomes from these meetings. Sometimes these diplomatic statements don't translate into real benefits for common people. Still, cautiously optimistic!
V
Vikram M
The electronic visa system for Bahraini nationals is a smart move. Will boost tourism and business travel. Many Indian professionals work in Bahrain - easier travel will help strengthen those people-to-people connections.
S
Sarah B
Impressed by the comprehensive nature of this partnership - from healthcare to space cooperation. Shows India's growing global influence and ability to build meaningful relationships across different domains.
K
Karthik V
The mention of Gaza peace plan is important. India's balanced approach in the Middle East is paying dividends. We maintain good relations with all sides while standing for peace and stability. Proud of our diplomatic maturity.

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