Kuala lumpur: Bahrain and Malaysia are deepening their strategic partnership as both countries expand cooperation across a wide range of fields for the mutual benefit of their peoples, according to Bahrains Ambassador to Malaysia Dr Waleed Khalifa Al Manea.
According to Nam News Network, Al Manea emphasized that the growing partnership is underpinned by the close relationship between His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim of Malaysia, along with the efforts of Bahrains Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and Malaysias Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to enhance bilateral cooperation.
Al Manea highlighted the commitment of both nations to expanding cooperation and coordination across various fields. He pointed to Malaysias hosting of the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix as a significant expression of the strengthening partnership between the two countries.
Al Manea made these remarks during a lecture titled "The Evolving Security Landscape in the Middle East: Bahrains Vision for Regional Stability, Diplomacy and Collective Security" at the National Resilience College, part of the Malaysian National Defence Studies Centre. The lecture was part of the college's Executive Week Programme and was attended by prominent figures including Major General Dr Abdul Karim Ahmad, Commandant of the National Resilience College, and Major General Datuk Abdul Rahim Yusuf, Head of Academics, among others.
During the lecture, Al Manea discussed Bahrains approach to strengthening regional security, diplomacy, and collective action to address evolving challenges in West Asia and the Gulf region. He outlined the kingdom's comprehensive approach, which includes the defence of sovereignty, protection of civilians, documentation of facts, and advancement of diplomacy and collective coordination.
Al Manea also spoke about Irans attacks against Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, which have targeted civilians, vital infrastructure, and maritime navigation routes. He noted the regional and global repercussions of these tensions, particularly for Malaysia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
During Bahrains presidency of the United Nations (UN) Security Council in April, Al Manea highlighted the kingdom's efforts to promote international initiatives to safeguard maritime routes, ensure freedom of navigation, and protect critical infrastructure. He praised Malaysias co-sponsorship of UN Security Council Resolution 2817, which reaffirmed the sovereignty of affected states, emphasized civilian protection, and called for an end to the attacks.