HIS Majesty King Hamad held official talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.
The two leaders reviewed the long-standing relations between Bahrain and France and discussed means to further strengthen their strategic co-operation, particularly in investment, economic and political affairs, defence, sustainable development and advanced technology, in support of the shared interests and objectives of both countries.
They also exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest, particularly the situation in the Middle East and ongoing efforts to address regional challenges.
At the beginning of the official talks, the King delivered an address welcoming President Macron and the accompanying delegation to the kingdom.
His Majesty said the visit reflected the depth of the historical ties and the progress achieved in their co-operation, which is built on mutual respect, shared perspectives and a commitment to a more secure and prosperous future.
The King expressed pride in the significant development of bilateral relations, highlighting the defence co-operation agreement signed during His Majesty’s visit to France in February. His Majesty said the agreement represented an important step towards expanding co-operation in security, energy and technology, while strengthening trade, scientific and cultural exchanges.
His Majesty added that the agreement also supports opportunities for large-scale joint projects with France in energy, industry and transport, including the railway project that will connect Bahrain to other GCC countries through new bridges.
The King congratulated President Macron on the success of the first international space summit recently hosted in Paris, which has created opportunities for co-operation with GCC countries.
His Majesty emphasised Bahrain’s commitment, as the current chair of the GCC, to building on these opportunities and expanding partnerships in key sectors.
Addressing regional developments, he noted that the visit came amid sensitive circumstances marked by unjustified attacks against the sovereignty and security of countries in the region.
His Majesty strongly condemned the recent Houthi terrorist attacks against Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed Bahrain’s full solidarity with measures taken to safeguard its security, stability and territorial integrity.
The King commended France’s solidarity with Bahrain, its role in protecting maritime routes and supporting regional stability, and its efforts alongside the US to assist Lebanon and Syria.
His Majesty reaffirmed Bahrain’s support for France and expressed confidence that it will maintain its security, stability and prosperity under President Macron’s leadership.
He emphasised that lasting security depends on compliance with rules of the international order, respect for national sovereignty and dialogue as the means of resolving crises.
The King highlighted Bahrain’s commitment, through its membership of the United Nations Security Council, to strengthening co-ordination with France on regional and international issues, particularly the Palestinian cause, in support of a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution and relevant international resolutions.
He concluded by expressing hope that the visit would mark a significant step forward in co-operation, extending best wishes to President Macron and to France for further progress and prosperity.
President Macron also delivered an address, welcoming the King in which he reaffirmed France’s solidarity with Bahrain in addressing current challenges and its commitment to continued co-ordination to strengthen security and stability and protect both countries and their citizens.
The President emphasised the importance of the strategic partnership between the two countries and the opportunities it offers to expand relations across various sectors, particularly industry, including co-operation with Aluminium Bahrain (Alba).
The French President emphasised the importance of strengthening defence and security co-operation and expanding the partnership in developing defence capabilities and military industries.
President Macron also highlighted the importance of co-operation in the energy sector, commending the existing co-ordination between the two countries and efforts to strengthen the security and continuity of energy supplies in support of stability and current needs.
Following the talks, the King conferred the Collar of the Order of Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa – Exceptional Class on President Macron in recognition of his contributions to strengthening the relations between Bahrain and France.
The King and President Macron then witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry and France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on co-operation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
The MoU aims to develop and sustain the expertise and capabilities required for a civilian nuclear programme through specialised training programmes.
The agreement was signed by Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot.
His Majesty hosted a luncheon in honour of the visiting leader and the accompanying delegation.
Later, the King bid farewell to President Macron.
Also present were His Majesty’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs and National Security Adviser Lieutenant-General Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa; Supreme Council for Youth and Sports First Deputy Chairman, General Sports Authority Chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee President Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Royal Court Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and a number of ministers.
The French leader was welcomed on his arrival by the King.
Also present at the arrival of the French President were Lt-Gen Shaikh Nasser, Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad and Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed and a number of ministers and senior officials.
Two ranks of the Honour Guard saluted His Majesty and the President.
Male and female students from Education Ministry schools were present to welcome the French President, and a traditional Bahraini Ardha was performed.
The motorcade of His Majesty the King and the French President then proceeded to Sakhir Palace, accompanied by a mounted escort.
An official welcoming ceremony was held, where the national anthems of France and Bahrain were played, and a 21-gun salute was fired in honour of the President.
The mission of honour was headed by Dr Al Zayani.
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