Bahrain and France are enhancing their strategic partnership, focusing on cooperation in defense, energy, and technology. This development follows official talks in Paris between Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and French President Emmanuel Macron, where they discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and support shared economic and security interests.
During the meeting, King Hamad and President Macron reviewed the longstanding ties between their countries and explored opportunities to advance their partnership amid regional and international challenges. A key point of discussion was the defense cooperation agreement signed during King Hamad’s visit to France in February, which lays the groundwork for collaboration across security, energy, technology, trade, scientific research, and cultural exchanges.
Regional security took center stage as both leaders emphasized the need for stronger defense and security cooperation to protect their nations and promote stability in the Middle East. King Hamad condemned recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed Bahrain’s solidarity with the kingdom. He also praised France’s commitment to maritime security and its role in fostering regional peace.
In the realm of energy, the talks underscored the importance of reliable energy supplies and collaborative efforts to address both regional and economic challenges. A memorandum of understanding on peaceful nuclear energy cooperation was signed by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot. This agreement aims to develop expertise and technical capabilities for a civilian nuclear energy program through training and knowledge-sharing.
King Hamad also honored President Macron with the Collar of the Order of Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Exceptional Class, acknowledging his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations. The discussions between the two leaders affirmed both nations’ commitment to expanding cooperation across various sectors, including industry and advanced technology.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the strategic partnership between Bahrain and France, highlighting their shared vision for enhanced collaboration in defense, energy, industry, and technological innovation.