Alpha News

Cyprus-Bahrain Bilateral Agreements Signed, Presidential Visit Significance

Published January 25, 2026, 13:13

The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, paid an official visit to Bahrain, marking his first bilateral visit abroad since Cyprus assumed the Presidency of the Council of the EU. This visit is particularly significant as it demonstrates the priority given by the Cypriot Presidency to relations with Gulf countries and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation with Bahrain at multiple levels: political, strategic, and economic. During meetings with the King of Bahrain, President Christodoulides emphasized the steady expansion of cooperation between the two countries in areas such as defense, security, trade, investment, culture, education, shipping, and tourism. He expressed his satisfaction with the depth and prospects of the relations, as well as the mutual commitment to further strengthening cooperation. The timing of the visit is important as Bahrain currently holds the presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), offering opportunities for closer collaboration at regional and international levels. Furthermore, Bahrain will be a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the years 2026-2027. As part of the visit, the signing of nine bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding is expected, as well as a business forum between the chambers of commerce of the two countries. The opening of a Cypriot embassy in Bahrain was also discussed, which will contribute to deepening diplomatic relations and more effectively promoting common interests.