Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim arrives in Bahrain for a state visit, the first since 1974, aiming to enhance bilateral trade and diplomatic relations.
MANAMA: Bahrain is preparing a grand welcome for His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who begins a state visit to the country from today until Saturday.
Rows of Malaysian and Bahraini flags are flying prominently along major roads in the capital.
The King is scheduled to arrive at 3 pm local time (8 pm Malaysian time).
This state visit is the first of its kind since 1974 and is expected to open a new chapter in diplomatic relations.
The three-day visit comes at the invitation of Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa.
Last year, Malaysia-Bahrain bilateral trade amounted to RM1.19 billion (USD284 million).
Malaysia’s key exports to Bahrain include processed food, palm-based products, electrical and electronic products, and transport equipment.
Major imports from Bahrain comprise metal products, metal ores and scrap, petroleum products, and iron and steel.
Bahrain is Malaysia’s ninth-largest trading partner, 11th-largest export destination and eighth-largest import source among West Asian countries.
King Hamad and Crown Prince Salman Hamad Al Khalifa will welcome the Malaysian King at Sakhir Palace with full ceremonial honours.
The welcome will include a mounted escort, greetings from Bahraini students, a traditional ‘Ardah’ dance performance and a 21-gun salute. – Bernama
