31 March 2011

Visit of Foreign Minister of Bahrain to India

As part of the regular high level exchanges between India and Bahrain, H.E. Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al-Khalifa, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain is visiting India from March 29-31, 2011.

2. India and Bahrain enjoy traditionally friendly relations which are based on historical and civilisational ties. The presence of a large Indian community in Bahrain represents a living link which nurtures this long standing relationship.

3. The Bahraini Foreign Minister met External Affairs Minister, Shri S.M. Krishna on 30th March 2011 and had detailed discussions on issues of mutual interest including recent developments in Bahrain and the region. The External Affairs Minister also hosted a lunch in honour of the visiting dignitary.

4. The Bahraini Foreign Minister conveyed the firm assurance of the Bahraini leadership about ensuring the safety and security of the Indian community numbering well over 350,000 and appreciated their contribution to the progress and development of Bahrain. In this context, the Bahraini Foreign Minister referred to his meeting with over 200 members of the Indian community on 26th March 2011 in Manama. External Affairs Minister thanked his counterpart for this reassurance with regard to the Indian community’s well-being and expressed confidence that the law-abiding Indian community would continue to be a partner in Bahrain’s growth story well into the future.

5. The Bahraini Foreign Minister briefed External Affairs Minister about the recent developments in the country. External Affairs Minister expressed the hope that the peaceful resolution of all issues through dialogue would pave the way for the continued economic development and prosperity of the friendly people of Bahrain.

6. The Deputy National Security Advisor Ms. Vijaya Latha Reddy called on the Bahraini Foreign Minister in the morning of 30th March 2011 and discussed issues of bilateral interest. The visit of the Bahraini Foreign Minister has further reinforced and strengthened the excellent relationship existing between the two countries.

New Delhi
March 30, 2011