H.H. Sheikh Abdullah chairs UAE-Bahrain meeting

The UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, led the 12th UAE-Bahrain Joint Higher Committee session in Manama on Sunday. 

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Adbullah emphasised the deep bonds and collaboration between the two nations.

The two top diplomats witnessed the signing of four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) that include exchanging expertise in civil aviation, bilateral cooperation in economic policies, as well as in enhancing competitiveness and developing government training. 

An executive programme for cooperation in the tourism sector was also signed by the UAE Minister of Economy, and Fatima bint Jafar Alsairafi, Bahrain’s Minister of Tourism.

“This patronage and support have served as a key motivator for our efforts and shared aspirations to elevate our strategic relations and diversify areas of bilateral cooperation between both sides,” Sheikh Abdullah said.

He pointed out that the continued periodic convening of the UAE-Bahrain Joint Higher Committee reflects "the commitment of both countries to work together, as opportunities and achievements are explored, challenges and outstanding issues in various fields are discussed, and the best possible opportunities are always sought to serve both countries.

"This approach also reflects our shared desire to create innovative solutions to overcome challenges and transform them into tangible achievements that serve the interests of the peoples of both countries."

The official noted that non-oil trade between the two countries exceeded $7.5 billion in 2023 and emphasised the UAE's desire to strengthen partnerships with Bahrain across industries such as trade, renewable energy, transportation, infrastructure, and services.