The meeting between the Japanese Foreign Minister, IWAYA, and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing relationship between these two nations. The visit on 18 September, 2025, which underscores nearly a century of friendly relations, signals a new chapter in the evolving partnership, with the aim of fostering deeper cooperation in a wide array of sectors, from politics and security to technology, space exploration, and cultural exchange.
A Historical Friendship
Minister IWAYA began the meeting by reflecting on the long history of friendship between Japan and Bahrain. “Our relationship has spanned nearly 100 years,” he remarked, pointing out the foundational ties that were forged in the energy sector but have since expanded into many other vital areas, including politics, security, the environment, information and communication technology (ICT), space exploration, and cultural exchange. The longstanding partnership was underscored by IWAYA’s firm belief that the time is ripe to take these relations even further. He highlighted the productive and constructive discussions held earlier in the month during the inaugural Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue between Japan and Bahrain, particularly the fruitful cooperation between both nations’ businesses under the new frameworks established during the dialogue.
IWAYA’s comments underscored Japan’s deepening interest in expanding its cooperation with Bahrain. This sentiment was echoed by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who expressed his satisfaction with the progress made in public and private sector cooperation. He also expressed Bahrain’s hope to continue this trajectory of strong collaboration with Japan, acknowledging the concrete outcomes of their shared initiatives.
Middle Eastern Stability: Shared Views on Gaza and Palestine
One of the critical areas of discussion between the two leaders was the political situation in the Middle East, particularly regarding Gaza and the broader Palestine issue. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to the principle of a “two-state solution,” which remains the cornerstone for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The mutual desire for peaceful dialogue as a means to address this long-standing issue was clearly articulated by both sides. Additionally, both parties agreed on the importance of continued coordination regarding the critical issue of maritime security, especially in strategic regions like the Red Sea.
Expanding Cooperation in Maritime Security and the Red Sea Region
The exchange regarding maritime security held particular significance, as both Japan and Bahrain share a deep interest in ensuring the free and secure passage of maritime traffic in the Middle East. As global trade increasingly relies on maritime routes, ensuring the safety of these pathways is critical for both nations’ economic prosperity. In this regard, both leaders committed to further collaboration, ensuring the protection of vital sea lanes and supporting regional stability.
A Shared Commitment to Strategic Partnership
The official visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa to Japan is not only a diplomatic gesture but also a reflection of the enduring commitment between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Japan to strengthen bilateral ties in various domains. This visit, which marks a new phase in the relationship between the two nations, is part of a broader vision to enhance cooperation in line with shared goals and aspirations for the future. It is noteworthy that this visit is set against the backdrop of Bahrain’s foreign policy, which is guided by principles of moderation and balance. Under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Bahrain has pursued foreign relations that are built on mutual respect and the pursuit of common interests. This balanced approach aligns well with Japan’s own foreign policy priorities, based on peace, security, and economic development.
Milestones in Bahrain–Japan Relations
Bahrain and Japan’s relationship traces its roots back to 1934, when Bahrain’s first oil shipment was sent to Japan following the discovery of oil in 1932. Diplomatic relations were formally established in May 1972, marking the beginning of an enduring partnership. Japan opened its embassy in Bahrain in January 1988, and Bahrain reciprocated by inaugurating its embassy in Tokyo in September 2005. Over the decades, the relationship between the two countries has flourished, particularly in areas such as trade, energy, technology, and culture. Bahrain has always admired Japan for its economic success and technological advancement, while Japan appreciates Bahrain’s strategic position in the Gulf and its stable, progressive role in the Middle East.
Economic and Trade Cooperation: A Pillar of the Relationship
Economic cooperation has always been a cornerstone of the Bahrain-Japan relationship. Both nations have benefited from numerous agreements that have facilitated trade, investment, and technology exchange. Notable agreements include the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, signed between the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and the Government of Bahrain in 2009, as well as the various trade and energy-related agreements signed in the years since.
The bilateral trade exchange remains robust, with Bahrain exporting aluminum products, fiberglass, metal scrap, and clothing to Japan, while importing cars, trucks, electrical circuits, and electronics. Japanese investments in Bahrain have primarily focused on technology, renewable energy, and technical training, all of which have contributed significantly to Bahrain’s economic development. In recent years, economic exchanges have continued to thrive, with both nations establishing official frameworks for business and investment cooperation. A key development occurred in May 2023 when both countries signed official memoranda to establish the Bahrain–Japan Business and Investment Group. This agreement seeks to deepen economic ties by encouraging collaboration between businesses from both nations.
Cultural and Educational Exchange: A Foundation for Long-Term Cooperation
In addition to economic and political cooperation, cultural and educational exchange has played a pivotal role in strengthening Bahrain-Japan relations. Bahrain has frequently hosted Japanese cultural, musical, and artistic groups, further deepening the understanding and appreciation of each other’s heritage. Bahrain also participates in key cultural events in Japan, including Expo 2025 Osaka, where the Kingdom will showcase its rich maritime history through a dedicated national pavilion. Furthermore, educational cooperation is a vital element of the relationship. Bahrain opened a Japanese Studies Centre at the University of Bahrain in 2000, and the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities signed an MoU with Japan’s National Research Institute for Cultural Properties and Kanazawa University in 2024. This agreement will lead to the establishment of the Bahrain Centre for the Archaeology and Cultural Heritage of the Arabian Gulf, marking another significant step in strengthening academic and cultural collaboration.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Mutual Growth and Cooperation
The current visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa to Japan highlights the shared commitment of both nations to expanding cooperation in all areas of mutual interest. This visit serves as a reflection of the long-standing and evolving friendship between Bahrain and Japan, with both nations eager to build on their existing ties to create a more dynamic and prosperous future. With common values, strategic interests, and a shared vision for the future, Bahrain and Japan are well-positioned to serve as a model for cooperation between the Gulf region and East Asia. This meeting between IWAYA and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa is expected to provide fresh momentum for their strategic partnership, advancing their mutual interests and contributing to regional and global stability.
As both nations continue to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, the continued expansion of their partnership promises to offer new opportunities for growth and development, with long-lasting benefits for both Japan and Bahrain, and their citizens alike.
