Bahrain’s economy continues to show strong resilience despite the impact of the Iranian aggression, Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa said.
He also highlighted that the kingdom, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad, consistently pursues peace and the building of a prosperous and secure future for the Middle East and the world.
The minister made the remarks while attending a panel discussion at the Middle East Institute in Washington, moderated by Ambassador Stuart Jones, president of the institute.
Shaikh Salman noted that Iranian attacks on the GCC and Jordan have raised regional and international concerns, with potential implications for the global economy and the supply of key commodities, including oil, gas and industrial products such as aluminium, fertilisers and iron.
However, Bahrain has the capacity to recover swiftly from such developments, particularly in key sectors such as tourism and financial services, which are increasingly oriented towards regional integration.
Shaikh Salman noted that non-oil sectors now account for more than 86 per cent of GDP, reflecting continued progress in economic diversification, and that non-oil revenues continue to grow, contributing to economic stability and resilience.
He highlighted swift measures taken by the Central Bank of Bahrain to support the banking sector, including providing BD7 billion in liquidity, reducing reserve and liquidity requirements, and allowing loan repayment deferrals for individuals and businesses, describing these as evidence of strong institutional readiness.
He said GCC countries have unified efforts to address the impact of these attacks and ensure the continued flow of goods, food, medicine and the movement of citizens and residents, stressing the need for greater economic integration to support stability and growth.
Shaikh Salman said the national economy is capable of achieving sustainable growth, supported by a developed regulatory environment and growing investment in innovation, including technology and advanced energy sectors. He added that Bahrain continues to strengthen its economic competitiveness and its position as a resilient regional hub capable of facing challenges.