Bahrain-Russian partnership discussed

Moscow, Oct.31 (BNA): Political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Russian Federation were held today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation in Moscow. The delegation of the Kingdom of Bahrain was headed by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for International Affairs, Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, while the Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Presidential Envoy for the Middle East and North Africa, Mikhail Bogdanov, headed the Russian side. During their political consultations, both sides discussed relations between the two friendly countries and ways of expanding them. They also exchanged views on current regional and international issues and developments of mutual interest, as well as combating extremism and terrorism. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah stressed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is keen to strengthen strategic partnership with the Russian Federation, noting that political consultations are an important mechanism for developing these relations in various fields, in order to add on the outcomes of the GCC-Russia Strategic Dialogue, and the Arab-Russian Cooperation Forum. The Undersecretary for International Affairs underlined the depth and strength of the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries and the mutual interest in enhancing joint coordination. He pointed out Russia's supportive position with the Kingdom of Bahrain and the role of Russia in promoting international peace and security. He also welcomed the newly appointed Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Igor Kremnev, praising his role in contributing to joint cooperation. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah stressed the importance of following up the implementation of the agreement reached during the high-level visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to Moscow in 2016, namely the 15 agreements that have been signed, including economic, military, technical and other cooperation, as well as a joint committee for the development of economic relations. He noted that there are many promising investment opportunities under the ongoing efforts to diversify the national economy and focus on the sectors of smart production, entrepreneurship, energy projects, banks and tourism. He also praised the outcomes of the "Russian Federation Days" forum, which was held in the Kingdom of Bahrain during the period of 24 to 28 November 2016, and included economic and trade meetings, seminars and cultural and intellectual events that reflected the rich Russian culture. The Undersecretary for International Affairs expressed the aspiration of the Kingdom of Bahrain for the effective participation of the Russian Federation in the implementation of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 programs to serve the common interests of both countries. He pointed out that the Kingdom has a dynamic and diversified economy that is sustainable in growth, competitiveness and justice, in addition to important incentives, an encouraging business environment, and logistics facilities, which can benefit Russian investments and companies. He also highlighted that the Kingdom is considered an ideal gateway to access to the Gulf market, and a center for money and business, noting that oil and gas discoveries in the Kingdom will also provide great significance for bilateral cooperation. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah stressed the joint efforts of the two countries to combat terrorism, condemn all forms, manifestations and motives of terrorism and drain its sources of funding and ideology in accordance with the provisions of the United Nations Charter and international law. The Undersecretary for International Affairs reviewed the comprehensive reforms of the Kingdom of Bahrain, under the wise leadership of His Majesty the King, and the qualitative gains achieved. He also added that the upcoming parliamentary and municipal elections are considered as one of the manifestations of democratic development in the country, including the dedication of public participation with integrity and transparency. The two sides welcomed the invitation of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to the participation of officers of the Royal Bahraini Air Force in the rehabilitation program with the pioneers of the Russian International Space Station in order to organize a joint trip to space. The Russian side expressed its will to assist in launch of a Bahraini satellite into space. For his part, Mr. Bogdanov expressed his country's aspiration for further cooperation and coordination with the Kingdom of Bahrain, appreciating the solid role of the Kingdom in consolidating regional peace, as well as reform measures and successful development efforts. He pointed out the availability of investment opportunities during the coming period, expressing his deep appreciation to the Kingdom of Bahrain for the steadfastness of its positions and the credibility of its movements. He also commended the outcomes of this political consultations between the two friendly countries as a new qualitative leap in enhancing bilateral partnership.