Bahrain Set to Host 21st IISS Manama Dialogue

TDT | Manama

Email : ashen@newsofbahrain.com

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) has announced the full roster of distinguished speakers for the upcoming IISS Manama Dialogue 2025, scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 2 at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

The prestigious annual summit — now in its 21st edition — will bring together top policymakers, defence officials, and global experts to discuss the evolving dynamics of security, diplomacy, and power in the Middle East.

The opening reception on Friday evening will be followed by a High-Level Conversation featuring His Highness Lieutenant General Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Advisor and Commander of the Royal Guard at the Bahrain Defence Force, alongside a special VIP guest from the United States.

Among the confirmed speakers are senior officials and ministers from over 25 nations and international organizations, including:

• Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bahrain

• Yvette Cooper, UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs

• Ruben Brekelmans, Minister of Defence, the Netherlands

• Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister, Oman

• Ayman Safadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Jordan

• Admiral Sir Keith Blount, Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, NATO

• Pierre Krähenbühl, Director-General, International Committee of the Red Cross

• Dr Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to the UAE President

The theme for this year’s dialogue, “Regional Power and Statecraft Amidst Global Change,” underscores the shifting balance of power and the challenges facing Middle Eastern nations as they navigate global realignments. Discussions will explore how regional powers can employ diplomacy and strategic influence to shape their futures amid evolving geopolitical trends.

Held annually in Bahrain since 2004, the IISS Manama Dialogue remains a cornerstone of regional security diplomacy, offering a vital platform for leaders, policymakers, and analysts to exchange insights and foster international cooperation.