The European Union and the Kingdom of Bahrain announced the launch of negotiations for a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) on 13 July 2026, following a meeting between EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, European Commissioner for Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica, and Bahraini Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani on the margins of the third High Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation in Brussels.
The agreement aims to deepen political and security dialogue, expand economic cooperation, and reinforce collaboration in multilateral fora. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the rules-based international order, promoting peaceful resolution of conflicts, and preserving maritime security and freedom of navigation. Bahrain currently holds the presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and serves as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2026-2027.
The upcoming negotiations will explore new avenues for cooperation and address emerging challenges of mutual interest. The announcement underscores the strength of the EU-Bahrain partnership and offers opportunities to further expand ties in areas such as trade, investment, and regional stability.
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