The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) has organized a panel discussion titled ‘EU-Bahrain: A Multi-Dimensional Partnership’ to further enhance relations between Bahrain and the European Union.
The event was held to mark the first anniversary of the signing of the Cooperation Arrangement between the Bahrain Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European External Action Service in 2021. It provides an institutional framework for political dialogue and cooperation in areas such as trade, research, innovation, and clean and renewable energy.
The main panelists at the discussions were;
- Mr. Patrick Simonnet, EU Ambassador to KSA, Bahrain and Oman
- Mr. Ahmed Al Qarainees, Chief of European Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador
- Dr. Andrea Cozzi, Managing Director of Eni in Bahrain and Lebanon, and Deputy Managing Director and Head of Geoscience in Eni UAE
- Ms. Rim Jalali, Executive Director of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain (FCCIB)
Speaking on the occasion, Derasat Executive Director Dr. Hamad Ebrahim Al Abdullah remarked that “The Kingdom of Bahrain views the European Union as a distinguished regional organization and a model for integration and complementarity; one that the Kingdom ensures it develops its relations with bilaterally or holistically.”
Dr. Al Abdullah emphasized that there was $2.7 billion worth of trade between Bahrain and the European Union until the end of 2021.
The Derasat Executive Director cited the increasing frequency of exchange visits between the two sides over the past few years, proving how much they are interested in developing their relationship based on regional challenges, particularly COVID 19 pandemic.
Mr. Simonnet observed that cooperation with Bahrain is multi-dimensional given its importance as an EU partner. The 2021 Cooperation Agreement was an important step towards developing multi-regional relations including economic and commercial diversification, research, innovation, human rights, clean energy and renewable energy sources, which has put the European Union at the forefront of the region globally.
Participants stressed the importance of increasing joint activities to combat climate change, conserve the environment and invest in renewable energy.
They welcomed their active participation in the UN Climate Conference and exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and commended the similar commitments made by the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
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