High-level diplomatic and military engagements continue to fortify India-Bahrain relations. Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, met Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Deputy Supreme Commander, at the opulent Rifa Palace on February 10. The agenda centered on elevating bilateral ties through intensified naval cooperation.
According to the Navy’s spokesperson, conversations delved into expanding collaboration in intelligence exchange, collaborative drills, skill enhancement programs, and advanced naval tactics for future conflicts. This meeting signals a proactive approach to maritime security amid evolving regional dynamics.
Recent months have seen a flurry of interactions. India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar recently conferred with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani prior to a key US-hosted minerals summit. January’s Republic Day gala at the Indian Embassy drew 400+ elites, with Al Zayani as guest of honor. Attendees included CMF commanders, business leaders, Bahrain Chamber reps, India Society members, three Pravasi Bharatiya Samman winners, and community representatives from both nations.
Cultural highlights included a special art exhibit on Indo-Bahrain bonds, a rap performance by Hussam Asim, and a melodic bamboo flute tribute to ‘Vande Mataram’s 150th anniversary by Bahrain’s Uttarakhand group. These events foster enduring friendships.
The momentum built from November’s fifth High Joint Commission meeting in Delhi, where Jaishankar and Al Zayani assessed advancements in commerce, defense, healthcare, arts, and public diplomacy. Emerging sectors like space tech, financial innovation, and digital security were also on the table. Jaishankar expressed optimism about deeper India-GCC links under Bahrain’s leadership and thanked Bahrain for prioritizing Indian expatriate welfare.