Bahrain delegation concludes participation in SPIEF 2025
St. Petersburg, June 23 (BNA): A delegation from the Kingdom of Bahrain, led by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, has concluded a successful participation in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2025 (SPIEF).
During the Forum’s main plenary session, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad delivered a keynote address and took part in a panel discussion alongside His Excellency President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, His Excellency President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia, His Excellency Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier of China, and His Excellency Paul Mashatile, Deputy President of South Africa. His Highness highlighted Bahrain’s distinctive approach to economic development.
Bahrain’s participation as Guest of Honour at the 28th edition of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum marks a significant milestone in the strong bilateral relations between the two countries. The event saw the signing of six memoranda of understanding to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including customs, energy, media, tourism, and trade.
Key agreements signed include:
· A memorandum of understanding between the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Government of the Russian Federation on cooperation and mutual administrative assistance in customs matters.
· A memorandum of understanding between Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce and Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade on collaboration in fuel and energy sector technologies and equipment.
· A memorandum of understanding between Bahrain’s Ministry of Information and Novosti Television concerning media and information technology.
· A memorandum of understanding between the Bahrain News Agency and RIA Novosti.
· A memorandum of understanding on tourism, business events, and incentive travel between the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and the Aeroclub of Russia Group.
· A memorandum of understanding and cooperation agreement between the Russian Export Centre and Export Bahrain.
The Bahraini delegation showcased the Kingdom’s open business environment, robust economic growth, and progressive policies during the Forum, while also highlighting opportunities for collaboration in priority sectors. Bahraini officials engaged in bilateral meetings with their Russian counterparts to review means of cooperation, investment growth, and increased trade.
These engagements underscore Bahrain’s strategic vision to serve as a principal gateway for Russian investment into the GCC and Middle East markets. Bahraini delegates also participated in high-level panel discussions, emphasising the Kingdom’s commitment to innovation and sustainable development.
Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak bin Dainah, Minister of Oil and Environment, participated in a panel entitled "The Global Energy Market: Striking a Balance between Producers and Consumers," where he outlined Bahrain’s efforts to sustaining a balanced and accessible energy portfolio. Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, took part in a session on "The Role of SMEs in Achieving New National Objectives," reaffirming Bahrain’s commitment to fostering a resilient and innovative SME sector and strengthening economic ties with Russia.
Furthermore, the Minister of Industry and Commerce participated in the "Russia-Bahrain Business Dialogue" alongside Sarah Buhiji, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). Buhiji also contributed to a panel discussion entitled "Professional Talent in Tourism and Hospitality: Investing in Human Capital, Education, and International Cooperation," highlighting Bahrain’s efforts to develop human capital and advance the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), participated in a session entitled "Architecture of Memory: Are Cultural Symbols a Passing Trend or a Call to Return to Our Roots?" which explored the importance of cultural identity and heritage in contemporary society.
Bahrain’s successful participation in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2025 is expected to lay a solid foundation for future cooperation and economic growth, as the Kingdom remains committed to strengthening its relationship with Russia and creating new opportunities for businesses and investors.
