India–Bahrain Relations

04.11.2025

India–Bahrain Relations

Context

India and Bahrain held the 5th India–Bahrain High Joint Commission Meeting in New Delhi, co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani, marking a major step in strengthening their strategic ties.

Key Discussion Points

• Defence and Security Cooperation: Both nations emphasized expanding defence engagement, highlighted by the visit of three Indian naval ships to Bahrain in September 2025. They reiterated their joint stand against terrorism, including condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025), and agreed on enhanced intelligence sharing, cybersecurity collaboration, and capacity building.
   
• Trade and Economic Relations: India remains among Bahrain’s top five trading partners, with bilateral trade touching USD 1.64 billion in 2024–25. Both sides discussed early negotiations for a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and advanced talks on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and a Bilateral Investment Treaty to boost trade and investment.
   
• Regional and Global Issues: Both countries supported the Gaza Peace Plan, emphasizing its importance for achieving lasting peace and stability in West Asia.
   

Geographical Location

Bahrain is an island nation in the Persian Gulf, linked to Saudi Arabia’s Al Khobar near Dammam via the 84 km-long King Fahd Causeway. It is a constitutional monarchy and hosts a vibrant Indian diaspora of about 3.3 lakh, forming nearly one-fourth of its population.

Conclusion

India and Bahrain share deep historical and cultural bonds, now reinforced through expanding defence, trade, and people-to-people cooperation. Their shared vision for peace, stability, and economic growth continues to strengthen this enduring and strategic partnership.