King of Malaysia’s state visit to Bahrain strengthens diplomatic relations, with both monarchs pledging enhanced cooperation and brotherly ties
MANAMA: The state visit of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, to Bahrain has marked a new chapter in the longstanding friendship between both nations.
The three-day visit concluded yesterday, showcasing the strong personal bond between Sultan Ibrahim and His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain.
At a State Banquet at Sakhir Palace, Sultan Ibrahim referred to King Hamad as “brother” as a sign of deep affection and respect between the two leaders.
“Your Majesty, my brother, although I am away from home, I never feel far away in this beautiful Kingdom of Bahrain,” declared Sultan Ibrahim.
“To me, Bahrain is my home.”
The Malaysian King noted that Bahrain shares similarities, mutual respect and a spirit of brotherhood with Malaysia.
King Hamad expressed Bahrain’s commitment to being a long-term strategic partner to Malaysia by strengthening collaboration across various fields.
“Your Majesty and your country have become loyal brothers and allies to Bahrain,” said King Hamad.
The Bahraini monarch sincerely hoped their friendship would continue to grow and prosper in the years to come.
This state visit to Bahrain represents Sultan Ibrahim’s sixth overseas visit following trips to Singapore, China, Brunei, Russia and Saudi Arabia.
Sultan Ibrahim’s arrival on Thursday was greeted with great splendour by King Hamad, including several special programmes arranged for the first time for a foreign head of state.
These included a visit to the Martyrs’ Memorial Monument, a site of great significance in Bahrain’s history located near Sakhir Palace.
A grand reception was also held during Sultan Ibrahim’s visit to the Ministry of Interior (Police Fort).
Rows of Malaysian and Bahraini flags were prominently displayed along major roads and at Sakhir Palace to celebrate the Malaysian King’s arrival.
Accompanying Sultan Ibrahim were Tunku Temenggong Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj, Tunku Panglima Johor Tunku Abdul Rahman Al-Haj and Tunku Putera Johor Tunku Abu Bakar Al-Haj.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin also joined the delegation.
Sultan Ibrahim departed for home on Saturday, with the special aircraft leaving Bahrain International Airport at 8 pm local time.
Last year, Malaysia-Bahrain bilateral trade amounted to RM1.19 billion.
Bahrain ranks as Malaysia’s ninth-largest trading partner among West Asian countries. – Bernama
