Bahrain and Japan: A Strengthened Partnership for Future Collaboration

This week, Bahrain's Minister of Sustainable Development, Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, is in Japan, where Bahrain celebrates its National Day at the 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo. Leading the Bahraini delegation is His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who will engage with Japan's Emperor, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister in Tokyo.

The historical ties between Bahrain and Japan, which began in the 1930s when Japan became Bahrain's first overseas market for crude oil, have evolved into a robust partnership. Established diplomatic relations in 1972 and enhanced through cultural and educational exchanges, this relationship has blossomed into a multifaceted collaboration.

Today, security cooperation is a cornerstone of their alliance, exemplified by the revised 2023 memorandum on defense collaboration, high-level visits, and joint naval exercises. Japan's longstanding commitment to global maritime security, particularly in counter-piracy efforts, further solidifies this partnership, ensuring safe sea lanes crucial for international trade.

Economically, Bahrain's Vision 2030 has successfully diversified its economy, with non-oil sectors now constituting over 85% of its GDP. Japanese firms, such as Sumitomo and Kyushu Electric Power, play pivotal roles in Bahrain's energy landscape, contributing to over 20% of the country's electricity and water production. The newly established Bahrain-Japan investment agreement aims to facilitate a seamless flow of capital, technology, and talent, enhancing the business environment for mutual interests.

Environmental initiatives are also a focal point, with decades of collaboration yielding advancements in cleaner industries and resource efficiency. Bahrain and Japan’s joint efforts, including cutting-edge carbon capture projects, signify a commitment to low-carbon logistics and sustainable infrastructure.

Partnerships with companies like BAPCO, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and Daiki Aluminium are paving the way for innovations that will promote resilience in supply chains amid global economic transformations.

As the world increasingly prioritizes technology and climate considerations, Bahrain positions itself as a stable and connected hub in the Gulf, while Japan contributes its world-class technological prowess. Together, they are poised to accelerate investment and develop scalable solutions that will shape the future.

Under the theme "Connecting Seas" at Expo 2025, Bahrain is eager to welcome both established Japanese enterprises and emerging innovators, embodying a spirit of collaboration that is buoyed by mutual ambition and shared opportunities.