Attributable to its location, stable politics, and strong economy, Bahrain is one of the key players in the Middle East. The main parts of Bahrain’s international strategy are political steadiness in an unstable region, economic collaboration, and security. Bahrain partakes in global associations, keeps up with associations with superpowers like the US, and develops relations with significant nations in the locale like Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Saudi Arabia
Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have significant political and economic ties. Strong historical and cultural ties bind the two nations, and Bahrain counts on political help from Saudi Arabia, especially in the time of domestic upheavals. They work closely as members of Gulf Cooperation Council in the field of counterterrorism and other issues of regional security. There are also benefits from Saudi investment in commercial and infrastructure sectors in this country that will strengthen the economic bonds of the two countries.
UAE
The UAE and Bahrain have a strong connection built on economic cooperation and security. Within the GCC, both countries agree and collaborate to tackle shared issues including the emergence of extremist organizations and regional instability. Strong economic linkages, especially in commerce, infrastructure, and banking, have also been created by them. Coordinating on a number of regional problems, Bahrain and the UAE put up a unified front on security concerns, such as attempts to limit Iranian influence in the area.
United States
The main areas of defense and security between Bahrain and the US are close. An important part in maintaining maritime security in the Gulf is the Fifth Fleet of the U.S. Navy, which is based in Bahrain. The two countries also work together on regional stability and counterterrorism projects. Beyond military, trade and investment are two areas of strong economic links between Bahrain and the United States. The importance of this alliance is highlighted by Bahrain’s convergence with U.S. goals on matters like maintaining regional stability and combatting extremism.
Iran
Due in large part to sectarian divisions and geopolitical competition, Bahrain and Iran have a tense relationship. The Sunni-majority nation of Bahrain has been cautious about Iran’s influence in the Gulf, especially because of its backing of Shia opposition organizations there. Iran’s funding for organizations hostile to Bahrain’s government and its regional aspirations have caused a great deal of mistrust. The country has always opposed Iran’s nuclear aspirations, but their few diplomatic interactions have been characterized by distrust and antagonism.
Qatar
Bahrain and Qatar have had complicated historical connections that have included both collaboration and disagreement. They have disagreements, especially on foreign policy and political influence, while being GCC members. Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates broke off relations with Qatar in 2017 because of charges that it was promoting terrorism and causing instability in the area. Both nations have, however, worked to restore diplomatic and economic relations since the Gulf War ended in 2021, emphasizing commerce, security, and cross-cultural collaboration.
European Union
Mostly via economic and political discourse, Bahrain has kept up diplomatic ties with the EU. In terms of human rights, regional security, and economic growth, the country has a close relationship with the EU. Critiques of Bahrain’s human rights record, especially with respect to political freedoms and the handling of opposition parties, have, however, periodically caused tensions in relations. Bahrain and the EU continue to discuss topics including trade agreements, international collaboration, and regional stability in spite of these obstacles.
China
It has increased Bahrain-China partnership over the areas of business and related infrastructure developments. Part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) includes Chinese investment in Bahrain in the sectors of infrastructure, technology and finance. Meanwhile, these countries have signed many agreements aimed at improving trade and economic relations, which makes Bahrain an important Gulf partner. The engagement with China is also reflected in Bahrain’s attempts to reduce dependence on traditional Western friends and broaden its foreign relationships.
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