Extraordinary relationship

When the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom signed a Treaty of Friendship in 1816, few would have predicted the diplomatic, political, military and economic ties between the two kingdoms would endure for two centuries.

The start of the 200th anniversary of relations between the two kingdoms was last week marked by His Royal Highness, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, and the UK’s ambassador to Bahrain, Simon Martin, onboard the Daring-class air-defence destroyer, HMS Defender.

HRH Prince Salman said: “This year’s 200th anniversary of Bahrain-UK relations marks a significant milestone in our countries’ deep-rooted relationship. It is a relationship committed to mutual respect and a shared pursuit of safety, stability and prosperity for our peoples.

“It is particularly apt that we begin our celebrations aboard the impressive HMS Defender, as strong naval ties have underpinned our 200-year relationship. These are ties that will strengthen further this year as we look forward to the opening of Britain’s HMS Juffair Naval Base later in 2016.”

Mr Martin described representing the UK in Bahrain as ‘a great honour particularly at this time’ adding that both he and his wife, Sophie, along with the whole British community on the island, were looking forward to celebrating ‘our extraordinary relationship’ with the kingdom and its people.

He added: “Our two countries share a long and special history and our relations span a huge array of shared interests which benefit both our countries and their peoples. This bicentenary offers an excellent opportunity to celebrate and to develop further this bilateral relationship.

“The UK and Bahraini governments, as well as companies, schools, clubs and community organisations will host a year-long series of events which will touch on business, entrepreneurship, heritage, culture, sports, health, education, technology, food and fashion.”