Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in a remote panel discussion organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania as part of the Annual Meeting of Romanian Diplomacy (RADR 2026).
According to Bahrain News Agency, the session included Oana ?oiu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania, and senior Romanian diplomats, focusing on regional developments, maritime security, and Gulf-European cooperation prospects. Minister ?oiu expressed appreciation for Bahrain's participation, emphasizing Romania's interest in enhancing bilateral relations and multilateral coordination with Bahrain and the European Union. She acknowledged Bahrain's influential regional and international role, notably through its UN Security Council membership.
Dr. Al Zayani spoke of the enduring Bahrain-Romania ties and stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to regional security, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear programme and related security concerns. He asserted the necessity for Gulf states to be central in any future diplomatic security arrangements.
He highlighted the strategic significance of maritime security, especially in critical areas like the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Dr. Al Zayani called for heightened international cooperation involving information-sharing and infrastructure protection. He also pointed out Bahrain's hosting of the Combined Maritime Forces, which include more than 40 countries.
Addressing the situation in Gaza, Dr. Al Zayani expressed Bahrain's commitment to peace efforts, including disarmament and the establishment of a Palestinian state. He highlighted Bahrain's foundational role in the Board of Peace and its backing for UN Security Council Resolution 2803.
Dr. Al Zayani also noted Bahrain's current roles as the Arab member of the UN Security Council and as chair of the GCC and the Arab League Ministerial Council. He urged increased European involvement in regional matters and mentioned the recent launch of Strategic Partnership Agreement negotiations between Bahrain and the EU.
The session concluded with Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Expatriates of Egypt, contributing to discussions on regional conflicts and international challenges.