Bahraini Crown Prince: We Are Advancing the Strengthening of Our Strategic, Investment, and Economic Partnerships with Global Nations

Bahraini Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa affirmed today that the Kingdom of Bahrain, under the leadership of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, continues to strengthen strategic and investment partnerships and expand the horizons of economic cooperation with various countries around the world, reflecting Bahrain’s vision of building robust economic ties that enhance its regional and international economic standing.

This statement was made during the opening of the fourth edition of the Gulf Gateway Forum, organized by the Economic Development Board, in the presence of GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al Budaiwi and a number of senior officials. The Crown Prince highlighted the importance of hosting and organizing economic events and forums that serve as effective platforms for exchanging views and expertise, showcasing investment opportunities, and strengthening economic relations between Gulf countries and the rest of the world, thereby contributing to enhanced Gulf economic integration and broadening cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, and investment to support development pathways.

He noted that in light of the changes and challenges facing the global economy, it is crucial to enhance international coordination and cooperation, intensifying efforts to develop innovative visions and solutions that help address these challenges and capitalize on the opportunities they present.

He emphasized the importance of building solid economic and commercial partnerships based on mutual interests, which contribute to enhancing economic growth and opening wider horizons for trade and investment, thereby supporting development pathways and strengthening the capacity to keep pace with global economic transformations.

He stressed that continuing the path of economic development requires maximizing the use of available potentials and resources, diversifying the economic base, and enhancing the contributions of vital sectors to the national economy, alongside further developing the economic and investment environment to boost competitiveness, support sustainable economic growth, and pave the way for more promising opportunities.

He pointed out that Bahrain’s hosting of the fourth edition of the Gulf Gateway Forum embodies the Kingdom’s economic and investment strengths and the attractive, business-friendly environment it offers. He reaffirmed the importance of building on achieved achievements in attracting quality investments and strengthening the Kingdom’s presence as a leading investment destination, thereby supporting the realization of desired goals.

Bahraini Minister of Finance and National Economy Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa delivered the opening speech at the forum, stating that for thousands of years, pearl divers, traders, and travelers have met in Bahrain, finding openness, ambition, and the belief that the best achievements are realized when people come together to work for a better future for future generations, a path he affirmed would continue.

He noted that our economies and peoples have faced unprecedented tests, and in the face of unprecedented aggression, we did not retreat but stood firm, deciding to continue working more closely with our allies and partners to defend what we have built and renew our resolve to secure a brighter future for future generations.

He pointed out that over the next two days, the Gulf Gateway Forum will witness the announcement of more than 110 deals exceeding $20 billion in value, including new partnerships, investments, projects, and job opportunities. He noted that these announcements come at an exceptional stage for our region, where the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries’ GDP has reached $2.4 trillion.

He mentioned that non-oil sectors now account for more than 86% of Bahrain’s GDP and more than 77% at the GCC level.

He clarified that Gulf banks hold assets exceeding $4 trillion, while Gulf sovereign wealth funds manage investments worth more than $5 trillion, noting that these figures reflect a region that has chosen to work toward building a more stable and prosperous future for its peoples. The Kingdom of Bahrain serves as the gateway to this region, a role we cherish and strive daily to earn through investment in three key pillars that are of paramount importance to investors: legislation, infrastructure, and above all, the citizens.

The panel discussion addressed the most significant shifts in global trade routes, the evolution of economic alliances, and the prospects for expanding economic and investment partnerships, alongside an overview of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries’ vision for strengthening their commercial and strategic relations and developing agreements with various countries around the world.

During the opening ceremony, it was announced that a Golden License had been granted to four new projects with total investments amounting to $3.89 billion in the Kingdom of Bahrain.