Bahrain-UK Strategic Dialogue Strengthens Defence, Trade Ties

Manama: The UK and Bahrain have reaffirmed their strong partnership, with UK Foreign Secretary Hamish Falconer and Bahrain's Foreign Minister, H.E. Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, co-chairing the second Bahrain-UK Strategic Dialogue in London. The dialogue reviewed progress since Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa's visit to the UK in June 2025, which included a £2 billion investment commitment through the second Strategic Investment and Collaboration Partnership.

The UK's accession to the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) and a new Defence Cooperation Agreement were welcomed, enhancing regional security. The first UK-Bahrain-US C-SIPA Defence Working Group focused on maritime, cyber, and air defence, with the next meeting scheduled for 2026. On regional issues, the Ministers welcomed UN Security Council Resolution 2803, endorsed President Trump's peace plan for Gaza, and called for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine.

The Ministers praised progress in UK-Bahrain ties, committing to ongoing high-level engagement and identifying new cooperation areas, including the green transition, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and tourism. They reaffirmed their commitment to concluding the UK-GCC Free Trade Agreement.