In Manama, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, His Majesty Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. This was Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s first visit to Bahrain and the first meeting between the leaders of Ukraine and Bahrain since 2003.
During the meeting, they discussed the security situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region, as well as key challenges and security opportunities. In particular, they addressed Iran's strikes against Bahrain and other countries, and the situation around the Strait of Hormuz.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy briefed the King on the situation in Ukraine, diplomatic efforts to achieve a dignified peace, and contacts with leaders of partner countries. Ukraine is ready to hold negotiations in a trilateral format.
Particular attention was paid to cooperation in security and defense. The President stressed that our country faces similar terrorist attacks almost every day, and Ukrainians have the relevant experience in full-scale defense.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine is ready to share its security expertise with Bahrain and help strengthen the protection of lives. The President proposed concluding a Drone Deal and scaling up cooperation with Bahrain. The leaders agreed that their teams would work out the details.
Particular attention was also given to the development of bilateral economic relations and partnership in the agricultural sector. They also raised the issue of opening embassies in Ukraine and Bahrain, as well as the possible introduction of a visa-free regime between the two countries.
