Jordan, Bahrain unite on regional issues, reaffirm Palestinian support

AMMAN —  Bahrain's Ambassador to Jordan Sheikh Khalifa Abdullah Hamad Al Khalifa on Wednesday highlighted the alignment between Bahraini and Jordanian on a range of regional and international issues, noting that both nations have a pivotal role in promoting Arab solidarity and joint efforts to address the regional challenges.

The diplomat also commended the visionary leadership of both kingdoms, underscoring that their close ties are reinforced by regular high-level visits and numerous bilateral agreements. He also highlighted that these strong diplomatic relations are essential for promoting stability and cooperation in the Arab world, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

Sheikh Khalifa reaffirmed the shared commitment of Bahrain and Jordan to the Palestinian cause, stressing that both nations are dedicated to securing the rights of the Palestinian people and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital in accordance with international resolutions and the two-state solution.

He also stressed the importance of preserving the historical and legal status quo of Jerusalem, noting Bahrain's strong support for the Hashemite Custodianship of Jerusalem's Islamic and Christian holy sites.

The envoy also praised Jordan's diplomatic efforts under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah, particularly in facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The recent 33rd Arab Summit in Bahrain underscored the need for greater Arab consultation and coordination in the face of escalating regional challenges, including the ongoing war on Gaza he said.

The summit, he noted, was notable for the adoption of several key initiatives proposed by Bahrain King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, including a call for an international peace conference to resolve the Palestinian cause based on the two-state solution, as well as supporting full recognition of the State of Palestine and its membership in the United Nations, and efforts to provide education and health care to conflict-affected populations.

On the economic front, the diplomat underscored the "steady" growth of trade and investment relations between Bahrain and Jordan.

Highlighting the outcomes of the fifth session of the Jordanian-Bahraini Joint Higher Committee, held in Manama in early 2023, he said that it resulted in the signing of eight agreements covering areas such as trade, labour, vocational training, health, environment and transport.

Trade volume between the two kingdoms reached 92.2 million Bahraini dinars last year, showing an increase of 9 per cent.

Education and tourism are other important pillars of the bilateral relationship, he said, noting that around 1,000 Bahraini students are currently enrolled in Jordanian universities, with both countries continuing to expand cooperation in higher education and cultural exchanges.

In tourism, some 52,000 Bahraini visitors travelled to Jordan last year, he noted.

He also praised Jordan's efforts to support Bahraini citizens and ensure their well-being during their stay in the Kingdom.

Sheikh Khalifa also expressed his appreciation for the Jordanian community in Bahrain, describing it as a highly valued part of Bahraini society.