New Delhi [India], November 3 (ANI): External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Monday emphasized the need to explore new areas of cooperation between India and Bahrain in emerging sectors such as space, fintech, and technology, while reaffirming India’s full support for the Gaza Peace Plan aimed at achieving a lasting solution in the region.
Speaking at the 5th India-Bahrain High Joint Commission (HJC) meeting with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Alzayani, Jaishankar highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations, built on strong trade partnerships and people-to-people ties.
“Since our last GCC meeting, we have made significant progress bilaterally in defence, security, trade and 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 relationship,” Jaishankar said.
Bahrain’s Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi earlier on Monday for a two-day official visit.
During his remarks, Jaishankar noted the steady growth in bilateral trade and investment, inviting Bahraini investors to explore India’s expanding economic landscape. He also pointed to progress in healthcare cooperation, space agency partnerships, and cultural exchanges.
“We have also seen a steady growth of bilateral trade and investment between our countries. 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,” Jaishankar said.
He added, “We are working on various initiatives to strengthen our cooperation in healthcare, and our space agencies are deepening their collaboration. We also share a vibrant cultural partnership and strong people-to-people ties.”
Reaffirming India’s commitment to regional security, Jaishankar referenced the visit of three Indian naval ships to Bahrain in September 2025 and thanked the Bahraini leadership for its continued support to the welfare of the Indian community.
He further highlighted recent initiatives, including progress in space cooperation, healthcare projects, and the launch of an electronic visa system earlier this year to facilitate Bahraini travelers to India.
On regional affairs, Jaishankar reiterated India’s steadfast support for the Gaza Peace Plan, stressing the need for a lasting and durable resolution to the ongoing conflict.
“We thank the leadership of the Kingdom of Bahrain for taking care of the welfare of the Indian community, and let me also add that we have, at a regional level, seen unprecedented change not just in the region but even 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 also congratulated Bahrain on the successful conclusion of the 21st Manama Dialogue and extended best wishes for its upcoming presidency of the GCC Summit, expressing optimism about further strengthening India-GCC relations.
“We look forward to your support for further intensifying India-GCC cooperation,” he added.
Prior to the meeting, Jaishankar welcomed the Bahraini Foreign Minister to New Delhi, writing on X, “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.” (ANI)
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