PM Bennett on meeting with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa: “we discussed many ways to build new bridges, and an architecture for a stronger and more stable region”
In the framework of his official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met with the country’s King, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, at his private palace.
Bennett was received by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and Prime Minister. Earlier, he met with several Bahraini government officials.
This historic visit follows the signing of an agreement in September 2020, under the Abraham Accords Declaration, that established relations between the State of Israel and the Kingdom of Bahrain. The agreement, facilitated by the United States, demonstrated progressive and responsible leadership of both countries to solidify regional peace, security, and stability.
"I consider it a historical day, to receive the prime minister of Israel,” said King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. “His visit to Bahrain will be a fruitful visit, a successful visit, because of his determination and leadership towards a joint, integrated effort for the best of the two peoples. I thank him for coming here."
Addressing the king, Bennett said it has been a “huge honor” to visit the kingdom, adding that he admires the king’s “courage and your determination to build your country. I think we discussed many ways to build new bridges, and an architecture for a stronger and more stable region. And I'm looking forward to continuing this remarkable relationship."
The leaders agreed to expedite the negotiations on agreements for the protection of investments and the joint work on a tax treaty, which will provide the infrastructure for promoting secure commercial cooperation.
The strengthening and encouragement of joint trade and investments and mutual visits of ministers and government officials was also agreed upon by the leaders. Joint economic committees will be established to enhance and expand civilian, economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.
It was also agreed to deepen ties between the Israeli and Bahraini peoples through cultural exchange and educational and academic collaboration. The leaders called on young people from both countries to actively engage in peace-building to benefit themselves and future generations.
The leaders welcomed the building of a bilateral 10-year plan called “The Joint Warm Peace Strategy” that will serve as a roadmap for the development of relations and will be jointly led and reviewed by both Ministries of Foreign Affairs. The Joint Warm Peace Strategy will prioritise areas of mutual interest, including innovation ecosystems, food and water security, sustainable energy, healthcare, education, and trade and investment.
As part of the Strategy, the Israeli and Bahraini governments will support programmes, such as student exchanges, that will strengthen bonds and foster dialogue and understanding between the countries’ young people.
During the course of the engagements, Prime Minister Bennett formally invited His Royal Highness Prince Salman for an official visit to Israel.
Image: Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's meeting with the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, February 15th 2022. Photo credit: Haim Zach (GPO)