Bahrain backs ASEAN-GCC free trade push at summit

• Bahrain pushes trade pact
• GCC-ASEAN deal supported
• Malaysia-GCC FTA welcomed

You Know What:
The GCC and ASEAN collectively represent nearly 10% of global GDP, making their trade partnership a rising force in global economics.

Mahir Haneef
TDT| Manama

Bahrain has reiterated its support for stronger Gulf-Asian economic cooperation by backing the launch of talks for a GCC-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, announced during the second ASEAN-GCC Summit held in Kuala Lumpur.

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, issued the call while representing His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at the high-level gathering, which brought together leaders and senior officials from both blocs.

Trade priorities aligned

HRH praised the signing of a joint statement that officially launched negotiations for a Malaysia-GCC Free Trade Agreement on Monday. The signing was witnessed by His Highness the Crown Prince of Kuwait and the Prime Minister of Malaysia, and was described by HRH as a milestone that sets the stage for broader regional integration.

Reaffirming Bahrain’s commitment to advancing collective prosperity, HRH said the proposed GCC-ASEAN FTA would provide a practical framework for strengthening economic and political ties while promoting coordinated action in a rapidly changing global environment.

Shared goals and vision

HRH also referenced the first GCC-ASEAN Strategic Dialogue held in Bahrain fifteen years ago, noting that what began as exploratory engagement has matured into a genuine strategic partnership.

From food security and sustainable tourism to education and clean energy, HRH said the two regions are increasingly aligned in their approach to shared priorities.

“There is tangible progress and real momentum in our collaboration,” HRH noted, adding that this spirit of cooperation is key to turning challenges into long-term opportunities.

Commitment to cooperation

During the summit, HRH reaffirmed Bahrain’s dedication to multilateralism and diplomacy, referencing HM King Hamad’s call at last year’s Arab Summit in Bahrain for an international peace conference on the Middle East.

HRH concluded by emphasising the importance of people-to-people connections and cultural exchanges in building a resilient and forward-looking partnership.

“Through our people, we will build a future-ready alliance that delivers prosperity and peace,” HRH said.