Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bahrain, engaged in discussions with Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, during her visit to Bahrain for the GCC-Canada Strategic Dialogue Ministerial Meeting. The talks focused on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing regional security issues.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani emphasized the continuous growth of bilateral ties and reiterated Bahrain's dedication to expanding cooperation in the economic, trade, and investment sectors for the mutual benefit of both nations. Minister Anand highlighted the significance of further fortifying the longstanding relationship between Bahrain and Canada. She acknowledged the ongoing efforts to advance bilateral cooperation and promote shared interests.
Minister Anand also expressed Canada's support for Bahrain and condemned Iranian actions against Bahrain and GCC states, including Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. She praised Bahrain's diplomatic initiatives at the United Nations Security Council, particularly its role in securing Resolution 2817, which urges Iran to halt activities violating international law.
The discussions encompassed bilateral cooperation and opportunities for expanding collaboration under existing agreements. The two ministers reviewed the outcomes of political consultations between their countries and exchanged views on regional and international security issues.
The meeting also covered regional developments, including the continued Iranian attacks against Bahrain and GCC states, and the ramifications of Iran's ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz on maritime navigation, the global economy, and energy and food supply chains. Both parties stressed the need to support regional and international efforts to facilitate Pakistani mediation aimed at reaching an agreement to end the conflict and maintain regional security and stability.
The meeting was attended by Ambassador Shaikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director General of Bilateral Relations, and Minister Plenipotentiary Salman Hassan Al Jalahma, Chief of the Americas Affairs Sector.