Manama, Bahrain. Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides praised the leadership of Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa during a two-day visit to the country. He is scheduled to meet the king and hold talks between delegations from both countries.
Guestbook message at royal palace
In a note written in the guestbook of Bahrain’s royal palace, Christodoulides praised the king’s “wise and visionary leadership,” saying it has established Bahrain as “a beacon of international cooperation, as well as interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.”
He expressed appreciation for the work of both the king and Bahrain’s prime minister, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, citing their support in promoting bilateral relations. He said the king and the prime minister have strengthened longstanding cooperation and friendship between the Republic of Cyprus and the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Christodoulides wrote that he wished the king “a long and prosperous reign” and the people of Bahrain continued peace, prosperity, and success, adding that he hoped the friendship between the two countries would endure.
Meetings and delegation talks
Sunday’s programme is set to include a private meeting with the king, followed by extensive talks between delegations from both countries.
Government outlines objectives of visit
On Saturday, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the visit is part of the government’s strategy to strengthen and deepen relations between Cyprus and the Gulf states.
He said it reaffirms political will to upgrade cooperation with Bahrain in politics, the economy, energy, culture, and defence. Letymbiotis added that relations between Cyprus and Bahrain have been developing steadily in recent years, culminating in the decision to establish a Cypriot embassy in Manama at the end of 2023.
The embassy is to be inaugurated during the visit, with Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos in attendance. Letymbiotis said the visit reflects Cyprus’ strategic choice to strengthen its role as a reliable and active partner in the wider region, contribute to deeper relations between the European Union and the Gulf states, and use Cyprus’ term as president of the Council of the EU as a platform for promoting stability and cooperation.
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