New delhi: India and Bahrain have committed to enhancing their cooperation in key areas of mutual interest following the fifth High Joint Commission meeting held in New Delhi. The discussions were led by India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Bahraini Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullatif Al-Zayani, who arrived in India on Sunday with a high-level delegation.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the meeting involved a comprehensive review of the progress made in bilateral relations, with both sides expressing satisfaction over the regular high-level exchanges. The talks covered various sectors, including defence, security, economic matters, trade, investment, customs, health, fintech, space, culture, and people-to-people ties, highlighting the commitment to deepen cooperation in these areas.
The statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs underscored the progress made in trade relations, noting that bilateral trade reached USD 1.64 billion in the last fiscal year. Both nations see potential for further growth and diversification in trade, particularly in electronics, petroleum products, processed foods, base metals, and gems and jewellery. The discussions also focused on fostering closer cooperation between investment authorities and the private sector to expand trade and investment ties, with progress noted towards establishing the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment.
In the realm of space cooperation, both countries expressed satisfaction with the collaboration achieved so far and discussed enhancements in future partnerships. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of strengthening ties in defence, security, and cultural exchanges.
The ministers also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. They welcomed positive developments in the Middle East, particularly regarding the situation in Gaza, which have contributed to easing geopolitical tensions. The importance of implementing the terms of President Trump's peace plan was also stressed, underscoring a commitment to peace and stability in the region.