Manama:Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, participated in a panel discussion on reshaping global trade routes and alliances during the fourth edition of Gateway Gulf 2026. The discussion was attended by prominent figures, including His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Jassim Mohammed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, and Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism of the United Arab Emirates.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the panel explored changes in global trade and capital flows, the future of Gulf integration, and financial and economic policy priorities. It also addressed investment, innovation, and international cooperation prospects. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa emphasized the significance of strengthening economic integration among GCC countries, focusing on developing trade and investment partnerships and diversifying economies to enhance resilience and stability.
Shaikh Salman highlighted Bahrain's efforts over decades to diversify its economy, noting a key milestone in 2002 with the appointment of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister as Chairman of the Economic Development Board. This strategic move led to significant growth in non-oil sectors. He also discussed the importance of Gulf integration in addressing regional crises, citing the cooperation among GCC countries in response to Iranian attacks this year.
Furthermore, Shaikh Salman discussed the vital role of the Strait of Hormuz as an international waterway and the necessity of ensuring its freedom of navigation. He underscored the importance of building pipelines and alternative routes while maintaining the Strait's accessibility due to its global economic role.
The Finance Minister also touched on priorities that emerged during recent regional situations, including defense cooperation with the United States and the need to strengthen integration in telecommunications, energy, and supply chains. He noted the significance of the US$5 billion currency swap agreement between central banks as a step towards monetary stability.
Shaikh Salman concluded by emphasizing logistics, supply chains, data, and energy as key priorities for Gulf cooperation, aiming to reinforce economic integration among GCC countries and support their capacity to tackle crises and global challenges.