Amman: Bahraini Ambassador to Jordan, Sheikh Khalifa bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, underscored the robust ties between Bahrain and Jordan, which are deeply rooted in the shared vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Majesty King Abdullah II. These relations, characterized by mutual respect and cooperation, have been further strengthened through official visits and the activation of various bilateral agreements.
In an interview with the Jordan News Agency (Petra), the Bahraini ambassador highlighted the alignment of the two nations on key Arab and international issues, making Bahraini-Jordanian relations a model for Arab solidarity and cooperation. He emphasized the importance of joint Arab action to address regional challenges and foster stronger partnerships.
The ambassador reiterated the steadfast commitment of both Bahrain and Jordan to the Palestinian cause, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with international
resolutions and the two-state solution.
He also commended King Hamad’s strong support for the Hashemite custodianship of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, recognizing King Abdullah II’s continuous efforts in supporting the Palestinian cause and facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza.
He pointed to the significance of the 33rd Arab Summit recently held in Bahrain, noting that it came at a critical time for the Arab world. The summit emphasized the need for intensified consultation and coordination among Arab nations, especially during the devastating war on the Gaza Strip.
The ambassador highlighted key initiatives proposed by King Hamad during the summit, including the call for an international peace conference in the Middle East and the push for full recognition of the State of Palestine and its membership in the United Nations.
The ambassador also discussed the growing economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Bahrain and Jordan. He noted that the Jordanian-Bahraini Joint Higher Co
mmittee, which held its fifth session in Manama earlier this year, resulted in the signing of eight agreements across various sectors, including trade, labor, health, and maritime services. The bilateral trade volume reached 92.2 million Bahraini dinars last year, marking a 9 percent increase.
He further emphasized the strong economic partnership between the two kingdoms, bolstered by their involvement in the Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development. Bahraini investments in Jordan have seen significant growth, particularly in the real estate, tourism, and financial sectors, with Bahrain ranking third among Arab countries investing in Jordan.
Education remains a key area of collaboration, with nearly 1,000 Bahraini students pursuing their studies in Jordanian universities. The ambassador noted the signing of an executive program for educational cooperation during the recent Joint Higher Committee session, with plans for further agreements in higher education and scientific research.
In th
e tourism sector, the ambassador highlighted the longstanding cooperation between the two countries, with a tourism agreement dating back to 2001. He mentioned that around 52,000 Bahraini tourists visited Jordan last year, reflecting the strong tourism ties between the two nations.
Sheikh Khalifa also praised the Jordanian community in Bahrain, noting the mutual respect and appreciation between the two peoples. He lauded the warm reception and hospitality extended to Bahrainis in Jordan, which reflects the deep historical and fraternal bonds between the two kingdoms.
Source: Jordan News Agency
