Cyprus–Bahrain Talks Gain Pace

- Maritime Security, Trade Top Cyprus–Bahrain Talks

- Cypriot Firms Ready to Expand Opportunities

Cyprus is seeking to expand cooperation in maritime security, including water security, in alignment with Bahrain’s vision to strengthen collaboration with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Cyprus’ Ambassador to Bahrain, Dr. Andreas Eliades, said discussions between the two countries are progressing, with both sides exploring new opportunities following recent high-level meetings between counterparts.

Highlighting the role of Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, the ambassador noted that Cypriot companies are ready to offer more opportunities in Bahrain, viewing the Kingdom as a key partner along Gulf trade routes.

These remarks were made during a press conference held at the Cyprus Embassy in Bahrain, where the ambassador outlined Cyprus’ plans as it assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union at a critical time.

The ambassador said that artificial intelligence, climate change, and education will be top priorities in the region, with Cyprus seeking expert collaboration through shared initiatives. He stressed that GCC representation at the discussion table is essential to advancing short-term regional plans.

He also revealed that the upcoming official visit of the Cyprus President to Bahrain will focus on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, and fintech. “Bahrain is the gateway to the Gulf, and Cyprus is the gateway to Europe,” the ambassador said.

Advancing discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA is also on the agenda, particularly as the UAE and Saudi Arabia have already entered Strategic Partnership Agreements with the EU, with further talks continuing at the ministerial level.

Although Cyprus’ EU Presidency is for a limited period, the country aims to maximise its impact by strengthening cooperation with GCC states and beyond. Interfaith dialogue with Bahrain is also part of the agenda, with preparations for a Cyprus–GCC summit seen as a regional priority.

EU Presidency Priorities

Cyprus has outlined key priorities as it takes over the EU Presidency, with a strong focus on security, migration, economic reform, and enlargement.

Under its security pillar, Cyprus aims to redirect EU attention southwards through the Pact for the Mediterranean, emphasising maritime security, protection of critical subsea infrastructure, and energy projects in the Eastern Mediterranean as part of Europe’s strategic autonomy.

Migration will remain high on the agenda, with Cyprus pushing for the practical implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, enhanced cooperation with North Africa and the Middle East, and expanded voluntary return programmes.

The Presidency will also lead complex negotiations on the EU’s next long-term budget, seeking to balance competitiveness, defence spending, and social cohesion amid differing positions between major contributors and cohesion-fund beneficiaries.

On enlargement, Cyprus will continue facilitating discussions with Ukraine, Moldova, and Western Balkan candidates, positioning itself as a mediator in sensitive regional matters.