India and Bahrain Strengthen Centuries-Old Friendship

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the enduring friendship between India and Bahrain during the 5th India–Bahrain High Joint Commission meeting in New Delhi. He was joined by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. The meeting reaffirmed that both nations share centuries-old ties rooted in trade, culture, and people-to-people connections. Jaishankar said the two countries remain united by a shared vision of peace and prosperity for their people and the wider region.

Jaishankar emphasized that India and Bahrain have made significant progress in many areas since their last High Joint Commission meeting. These include defence cooperation, security collaboration, trade, healthcare, and cultural exchanges. He said that both countries are now looking toward new frontiers such as space, financial technology (fintech), and digital innovation, which have immense potential to deepen mutual engagement. The External Affairs Minister assured that India’s commitment to working closely with Bahrain in these areas would help both nations achieve sustainable growth.

The Indian minister congratulated Bahrain on successfully hosting the 21st Manama Dialogue, an important regional security conference. He also extended his best wishes to Bahrain as it prepares to assume the presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at the upcoming GCC Summit in Manama. Jaishankar expressed confidence that under Bahrain’s leadership, cooperation between India and the GCC will reach new levels. He stressed that India values Bahrain’s partnership in promoting dialogue, peace, and collective security in the Gulf region.

Jaishankar noted that maritime security forms an important part of India–Bahrain relations. India has been actively participating in the Combined Maritime Forces based in Manama, which works to ensure safe and secure sea routes. He recalled that in September 2025, three Indian naval ships visited Bahrain, strengthening naval cooperation and reinforcing India’s commitment to regional maritime stability. These interactions, he said, highlight the growing importance of defence and security partnerships in maintaining peace in the region.

The meeting also focused on enhancing bilateral economic ties. Jaishankar mentioned that India and Bahrain have seen a steady increase in trade and investment over the years. He invited Bahraini investors to explore opportunities in India’s growing economy. To encourage this, both nations are working on finalizing a Bilateral Investment Treaty and creating a Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment. These initiatives aim to make it easier for businesses to collaborate, expand trade channels, and support economic diversification in both countries.

The two nations are also expanding cooperation in healthcare, technology, and space research. Jaishankar explained that both governments are working together on projects to improve public health and medical research. He added that India’s space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Bahrain’s space authorities are exploring opportunities to collaborate on advanced technologies that benefit both sides. This partnership is a sign of how India and Bahrain are adapting to future challenges and embracing innovation.

Jaishankar underlined that cultural and personal connections remain at the heart of India–Bahrain relations. He noted that thousands of Indian expatriates live and work in Bahrain, contributing positively to its economy and society. To strengthen tourism and travel between the two nations, India recently introduced an electronic visa system for Bahraini nationals. The move aims to make travel easier and promote greater people-to-people exchanges. The minister expressed hope that this will encourage more visitors and cultural collaborations in the coming years.

In his closing remarks, Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for efforts toward peace in the Middle East. Referring to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, he said India supports all initiatives that can bring lasting and sustainable peace to the region. He expressed optimism that cooperation between India, Bahrain, and other regional partners can help build stability and prosperity for all.

The 5th India–Bahrain High Joint Commission meeting reflected the strong and growing partnership between the two countries. With a shared history of trade, cultural exchange, and mutual respect, India and Bahrain continue to build a relationship that looks firmly toward the future. From economic collaboration to technology innovation, both sides are working together to create new opportunities that will benefit not only their citizens but also contribute to regional and global stability.