During His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s official state visit to Beijing, a joint statement was issued today, marking the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the People’s Republic of China. The visit was at the invitation of His Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China.
Since establishing diplomatic relations on April 18, 1989, Bahrain and China have maintained mutual respect and equality, with their relations steadily developing, political trust growing, and practical cooperation growing stronger across various fields, the statement said.
Celebrating the 35th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, both nations expressed satisfaction with their progress and agreed to a comprehensive strategic partnership to enhance cooperation in all areas for the benefit of their peoples, the statement announced.
The statement said that both countries will continue supporting each other on core issues.
‘China reaffirms its supp
ort for Bahrain’s sovereignty, security, and stability, rejecting external interference in Bahrain’s internal affairs,’ it read.
‘Bahrain reaffirms its commitment to the One-China policy and supports China’s efforts to maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity.’
Bahrain praised President Xi Jinping’s Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative, the statement added.
In turn, China welcomed Bahrain’s participation in these initiatives and expressed readiness to cooperate. Both sides emphasised the importance of true multilateralism, upholding the international system centred on the UN, and promoting a multipolar world and inclusive economic globalisation. They pledged to work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
The two countries agreed to enhance communication at all levels, expand exchanges between government and parliamentary bodies, and strengthen policy coordination to deepen political trust.
They will continue coop
eration under the Belt and Road Initiative, expanding collaboration in infrastructure, economy, trade, investment, finance, new energy, advanced technology, agriculture, fisheries, education, culture, tourism, and health to foster development and prosperity.
China congratulated Bahrain on successfully hosting the 33rd Arab League Summit on May 16, 2024, and commended Bahrain’s initiative to host an international peace conference, recognising Bahrain’s efforts in promoting peace in the Middle East.
Both sides praised the role of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum in advancing joint cooperation and expressed readiness to ensure the implementation of the outcomes of the first China-Arab States Summit. They committed to preparing for the second China-Arab States Summit in China in 2026, fostering China-Arab cooperation and building a shared future.
The statement said that the two leaders stressed the importance of implementing the outcomes of the first China-GCC Summit, deepening strategic partnerships, a
nd working towards a China-GCC free trade agreement at the earliest opportunity.
Both sides affirmed that maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf serves the fundamental and long-term interests of the region’s people. They support resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation, utilising positive neighbourliness, and enhancing communication and coordination on regional affairs to jointly contribute to peace, development, and security.
Source: Bahrain News Agency