Italy stands in unwavering solidarity with Bahrain during ongoing regional challenges, with plans underway to deploy its ‘soft power’ and expand bilateral trade, security and educational ties.
A resilient decision to celebrate unity was taken at the Italian Ambassador’s residence on Tuesday, just hours before new, unprovoked attacks were carried out by Iran against Bahrain and Kuwait.
In the shadow of these escalating tensions, the embassy hosted a solemn ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of Italy’s Republic Day.
The event attracted senior Bahraini officials, local and expatriate community representatives, as well as the entire diplomatic corps in a shared commitment to peace. Adding to the significance of the occasion, His Majesty King Hamad sent a special congratulatory message that was hand-delivered to Ambassador Andrea Catalano.
The celebration was honoured by the presence of Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani, who praised the ongoing bilateral relations. “This partnership continues to grow strong across a wide range of fields, reflecting the many shared values of our people,” Dr Al Zayani added.
“Even in these uncertain times, the kingdom will remain a beacon of stability, playing an important role on the world stage. We have drawn great strength from Italy’s solidarity and its recent regional support for our sovereignty and territorial integrity, alongside its clear rejection of attacks on individuals and neighbourhoods.”
In his own remarks, Ambassador Catalano emphasised the enduring friendship between Rome and Manama, stressing that Italy never considered evacuating its diplomatic presence. “Despite the circumstances, we felt it was our duty to mark this solemn occasion and confirm our closeness to our Bahraini friends,” Mr Catalano told the GDN on the sidelines of the reception.
“None of us ever left – neither myself nor my staff. We stayed right here to support the Italian community and Bahrain.
“We are here to stay, and we look forward to celebrating in full form during the Day of National Unity and Armed Forces in late October or early November.”
The ambassador expressed deep appreciation to His Majesty and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their leadership. He also commended the kingdom’s defence and security forces for safeguarding the nation.
Italy’s Republic Day commemorates the historic June 2, 1946 turning point when Italians, including women for the first time, chose democracy and peace. The ambassador highlighted that these constitutional values serve as the cornerstone for bilateral ties. To that end, Mr Catalano revealed that a fresh memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between Italian promotional and industrial partners to fast-track joint business initiatives.
The envoy emphasised that Rome and Manama remain ‘totally on the same page’ regarding global security and the protection of international waterways. “Italy is a maritime country; the sea is our natural environment,” he explained.
“While we are not an island nation, we have islands physically larger than Bahrain, giving us a natural connection.
“We fully understand the critical importance of freedom of navigation in international straits, and we have consistently supported all of Bahrain’s initiatives at the United Nations.”
Highlighting the political synergy between the two capitals, Mr Catalano noted there are ‘zero bilateral challenges’ between the two countries. He pointed to the recent visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Bahrain as a guest of honour at the GCC summit as a milestone signalling that strength.
As soon as regional circumstances stabilise, the embassy is planning a robust cultural and economic push. “We are ready to bring back the full force of our ‘soft power’,” the ambassador said, noting that flagship events like Italian Design Day and the Week of Italian Cuisine would return to the kingdom shortly.
Beyond culture, energy security and sustainability are key areas of mutual growth. While traditional oil and gas sectors remain active, Mr Catalano stated that Italy is keen to share its substantial expertise in renewable energy and water management technologies.
Bilateral educational ties are also witnessing a significant boost, with the embassy increasing its allocation of fully-funded university scholarships for Bahraini students.
The number of Bahraini scholars heading to top-tier Italian institutions – such as the world-renowned Sapienza University of Rome – has risen from six last year to eight this year.
“I am particularly happy to note that the majority of these students are women,” Mr Catalano remarked. “They are focusing heavily on advanced technological sectors, including robotics, automotive engineering, physics and chemistry. We are absolutely delighted to share our expertise with them.”
Mr Catalano concluded by praising Bahrain’s historic commitment to interfaith dialogue, adding that milestones like the Papal visit to the country coinciding with the opening of a new Roman Catholic Cathedral in Awali, highlighted a shared gratitude for tolerance and open dialogue in the region.
avinash@gdnmedia.bh
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