Bahrain and France are taking significant steps to bolster their strategic partnership across key sectors, following a meeting between Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and French President Emmanuel Macron. The talks, held to enhance bilateral relations, focused on expanding cooperation in defence, energy, technology, and sustainable development.
The discussions highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two nations and explored opportunities for advancing their strategic partnership to support shared economic and security interests. The leaders exchanged views on regional and international developments, especially the Middle East’s situation, and emphasized collaboration to tackle regional challenges.
King Hamad underscored the progress in bilateral relations, notably a defence cooperation agreement signed during his visit to France in February. This agreement sets a framework for broader collaboration in areas including security, energy, technology, trade, and cultural exchanges. The talks also considered potential joint projects in energy, industry, and transportation, such as a proposed railway connecting Bahrain with other Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
Regional security was a key topic, with both leaders stressing the importance of strengthening defence and security cooperation to ensure their countries’ protection and regional stability. King Hamad condemned recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and affirmed Bahrain’s solidarity with the kingdom, while praising France’s efforts in maritime security and regional stability. Macron reiterated France’s commitment to enhancing coordination on defence and regional stability.
On the energy front, the leaders highlighted the need for reliable energy supplies and closer cooperation to address regional and global challenges. Following their meeting, Bahrain and France signed a memorandum of understanding on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, focusing on developing civilian nuclear energy expertise through training and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
In recognition of his efforts to strengthen relations between the two countries, King Hamad awarded President Macron the Collar of the Order of Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Exceptional Class. This meeting reaffirms Bahrain and France’s dedication to deepening their strategic partnership and expanding cooperation across various sectors, including defence, energy, industry, and advanced technology.