India and Bahrain reiterated their commitment to deepening bilateral ties across diverse sectors during the Fourth India-Bahrain High Joint Commission (HJC) Meeting held in Manama. The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s Minister of External Affairs, and Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Alzayani, Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The HJC, established in 2014, serves as a high-level platform for enhancing cooperation between the two nations. This year’s meeting was particularly significant as it marked the 10th anniversary of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s landmark visit to India and the 5th anniversary of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Bahrain.
Key Highlights
Enhanced Economic and Trade Collaboration
Both sides lauded the growth in bilateral trade and investment, agreeing to establish a Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment. Discussions emphasized sectors like energy, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, IT, and downstream industries. Bahrain reaffirmed its interest in concluding a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with India to further enhance economic ties.
Digital and Financial Integration
The Ministers agreed to expedite the acceptance of Indian RuPay cards in Bahrain and deepen cooperation in FinTech and digital payments. These steps aim to facilitate financial transactions and expand digital connectivity between the two countries.
Energy and Renewable Sector Cooperation
Energy remained a cornerstone of discussions, with both nations focusing on hydrocarbon trade and joint ventures in oil and gas. Progress in renewable energy collaboration since the 2018 MoU was also reviewed, with commitments to advancing partnerships in solar, wind, and green hydrogen technologies.
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
The meeting highlighted the potential for collaboration in pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Bahrain welcomed greater access to Indian pharmaceutical products, and both nations pledged to facilitate trade in vaccines and healthcare innovations.
Defence and Security
India and Bahrain agreed to strengthen defence cooperation, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between their armed forces. Bahrain’s appreciation of India’s participation in the 7th Bahrain International Air Show underscored the growing strategic alignment.
Cultural and People-to-People Ties
Acknowledging the vibrant Indian diaspora in Bahrain, both sides expressed appreciation for its contribution to Bahrain’s development. They also agreed to renew the Cultural Exchange Program and deepen ties in education, tourism, and heritage conservation.
Global and Regional Issues
Both nations emphasized the importance of counter-terrorism efforts and reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and security in the Middle East. Discussions also addressed regional and multilateral cooperation, including Bahrain’s role in strengthening India-GCC ties and hosting an international peace conference.
Future Prospects
The HJC concluded with an agreement to hold its next meeting in India, underscoring the shared vision of enhancing ties across all domains. The Ministers expressed optimism about the future of India-Bahrain relations, highlighting the mutual benefits of their strategic partnership.
The meeting reinforced the strong foundation of India-Bahrain relations, built on mutual respect, shared values, and a vision for a more interconnected and prosperous future.