Manama: Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides is set to embark on an official visit to Bahrain on January 25 and 26, following an invitation from the King of Bahrain, as revealed in a written statement by Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis. The visit will feature the signing of eight agreements and memoranda of cooperation spanning education, culture, tourism, military cooperation, and search and rescue.
According to Cyprus News Agency, this visit is part of the Cypriot Government's broader strategy to enhance relations with Gulf states. It is seen as a reaffirmation of the political will to upgrade cooperation with Bahrain across political, economic, energy, cultural, and defense sectors. The Spokesperson emphasized that bilateral cooperation between Cyprus and Bahrain has been steadily growing, highlighted by the decision to establish a Cypriot Embassy in Manama by the end of 2023.
The Republic of Cyprus and Bahrain have outlined a Joint Action Plan to deepen cooperation, providing a structured framework for initiatives between the two nations. The agreements and memoranda set to be signed during the visit underscore the tangible progress in their relationship and the commitment of both sides to translate dialogue into actionable cooperation.
During the visit, President Christodoulides will meet with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at Gudaibiya Palace. The agenda includes bilateral relations, regional and international developments, the Cyprus issue, and EU-Bahrain relations. Letymbiotis noted that the President will also brief Bahraini officials on Cyprus's priorities during its EU Council Presidency, focusing on EU-Middle East and Gulf state relations.
The President will participate in the Cyprus-Bahrain Business Forum to bolster economic, business, and investment ties, especially in areas of mutual investment interest. He will also engage with Bahrain's state Investment Fund to discuss quality investment opportunities and potential cooperation areas.
Letymbiotis highlighted the significance of inaugurating the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Manama, in the presence of Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs. This move is expected to enhance institutional cooperation, political dialogue, and economic diplomacy.
The visit underscores Cyprus's strategic aim to position itself as a reliable partner in the region, fostering EU-Gulf state relations and leveraging its EU Council Presidency to promote stability and cooperation. Accompanying the President will be the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Energy, Commerce and Industry, the Government Spokesperson, the Deputy Minister to the President, the National Security Adviser, the Director of the President's Diplomatic Office, and other senior officials.