Bahrain’s Human Capital Will Define Its Next Five Years
TDT | Manama
Email: ashen@newsofbahrain.com
Outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain Steven C. Bondy has underscored that despite ongoing regional challenges, Bahrain’s future will be defined by the strength and quality of its people, particularly its youth and the country’s commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity.
Addressing his final press conference before the end of his tenure in September, the Ambassador acknowledged the complex geopolitical environment, pointing to instability in Gaza, Iranian influence, and heightened global competition. However, he stressed that the United States and Bahrain remain aligned in their objectives.
Ambassador Bondy expressed confidence that Bahrain will stand out in the Gulf over the next five years because of its highly educated, ambitious, and adaptable workforce. He credited the leadership’s long-term vision and investment in people as key drivers of future success.
“When I look at Bahrain’s next five years, I see a country that will distinguish itself in the Gulf by the quality of its human capital,” he said. “The leadership here is pursuing wise policies, and the youth are ready to seize the opportunities ahead.”
The ambassador highlighted initiatives such as the HRH Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Program, collaborations between Bahrain and American universities, and internship schemes that prepare young Bahrainis to compete on a global stage. He also praised the growing role of women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and STEM fields.
New Horizons
Ambassador Bondy identified technology as a central pillar for Bahrain’s economic future. He noted that U.S. companies, including CitiBank and Amazon Web Services, are investing heavily in Bahrain due to the quality of local talent, especially in programming, data science, and artificial intelligence.
He also cited the recent Gulf Air direct flight to New York City as a milestone that will expand trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, and the Al-Munther satellite launch as a sign of Bahrain’s readiness to engage in cutting-edge scientific exploration alongside the United States.
Global Challenges
The Ambassador's remarks also reflected optimism in the face of adversity. While regional instability remains a concern, he said that Bahrain’s diplomatic maturity, collaborative foreign policy, and adaptability make it well-positioned to turn challenges into opportunities.
“The strategic relationship between Bahrain and the United States is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a clear understanding of what we want to achieve,” he said. “That’s why I’m confident Bahrain will navigate the next five years successfully, advancing both its own interests and regional stability.”
“We share the same goals: peace, stability, and prosperity,” the Ambassador said. “Strong partnerships and bold decisions, such as Bahrain’s signing of the Abraham Accords, will continue to shape a secure and prosperous future for this region.”
He described the Abraham Accords as a “brave and strategic decision” by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa that altered the regional landscape, paving the way for new opportunities in diplomacy, trade, and security cooperation.
Closing his remarks, the Ambassador reflected on the warmth and openness he experienced from the Bahraini people, recalling moments such as walking the historic Pearling Path, attending Ramadan majlises, and celebrating cultural festivals with the community.
“The friendships, trust, and collaboration we’ve built will continue to thrive long after my departure,” he said. “Bahrain’s future is in good hands, in the hands of its people.”
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