Seoul: Saud Hasan Ali Alnusuf, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Republic of Korea, marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Republic of Korea, highlighting the steady development of bilateral ties over five decades.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Ambassador expressed pride in the strong relations between the two countries, underscoring their shared commitment to partnership, mutual understanding, and continued support for peace and stability. He noted that the strength of Bahrain-Korea relations is underpinned by close ties under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, which have advanced cooperation and reinforced mutual trust.
Alnusuf highlighted that relations between the two countries have progressed since 1976 across political, economic, and cultural fields, including trade, investment, energy, infrastructure, and cultural exchange, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing mutual interests. He highlighted the Republic of Korea's partnership in major development projects in Bahrain, including the Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard (ASRY), Aluminium Bahrain (ALBA), Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC), and Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco), as well as cooperation in sectors such as information technology, construction, trade, and healthcare.
The Ambassador added that connectivity between the two countries continues to expand, including through the Air Services Agreement signed in 2023. He also noted that the first direct flight from Seoul to the Middle East landed in Manama in 1976, highlighting Bahrain's role as a gateway for Korea in the region. He further noted the continued growth of bilateral relations, including parliamentary cooperation and institutional engagement, as well as the role of the Korea-Bahrain Business Forum in supporting economic cooperation and private sector partnerships.
Alnusuf underscored that the establishment of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in Seoul in 2024 marked a new phase in diplomatic engagement, noting that the Republic of Korea remains an important partner for Bahrain. The Ambassador reiterated the embassy's commitment to further enhancing bilateral relations and expanding cooperation, particularly in support of economic diversification and sustainable development goals.
In conclusion, the Ambassador expressed appreciation to the leadership, government, and people of the Republic of Korea for their continued partnership, noting prospects for further cooperation and shared prosperity between the two countries.