New delhi: The Fifth Bahrain-India High Joint Commission Meeting took place today in New Delhi, co-chaired by Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, and India's Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Jaishankar congratulated Bahrain on the success of the 21st IISS Manama Dialogue 2025 and its upcoming presidency of the GCC Summit in December. He emphasized India's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Bahrain and highlighted the progress achieved in various sectors. Dr. Jaishankar also expressed appreciation for Bahrain's support to the Indian community residing in the country.
Dr. Al Zayani, in turn, discussed the historical relations between Bahrain and India, rooted in trade and cultural exchange. He noted that economic relations are a cornerstone of the bilateral partnership and emphasized Bahrain's vision for sustainable peace in the Middle East. He highlighted the significance of dialogue and mutual respect in achieving this goal and mentioned the adoption of the Gaza peace plan as an opportunity to advance regional peace.
The meeting examined cooperation in economic, trade, investment, and development sectors, with a focus on expanding these areas. Additionally, the importance of security, health, culture, education, tourism, and space sciences was emphasized for mutual benefit. Political and diplomatic cooperation was also discussed, with both sides agreeing on the importance of maintaining mutual support in international forums during Bahrain's upcoming term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
The two sides reviewed regional and international developments, including efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza and the delivery of humanitarian aid. They also underscored the importance of achieving a comprehensive peace in the region.
Concluding the meeting, both parties agreed to hold the sixth session of the committee in Bahrain next year. A joint statement highlighted the importance of high-level visits in strengthening bilateral relations and reviewed progress since the previous session held in 2024.
The Bahraini delegation included several high-ranking officials, while the Indian delegation comprised senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs and other authorities, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the meeting.