French Envoy Lauds Bahrain’s Successful Airshow

Mahir Haneef

TDT| Manama

As the Bahrain International Airshow 2024 concluded, French Ambassador to Bahrain, H.E. Eric Giraud-Telme, commended the Kingdom for its seamless organization of the event, held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with the support of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The Ambassador highlighted the growing collaboration between France and Bahrain in the aerospace industry, reflecting the strengthening ties between the two nations.

France’s participation in this year’s airshow was substantial, featuring top aerospace companies like Airbus, Thales, AMC Aviation, and CFM International, a joint venture between Safran and General Electric specializing in aircraft engines. The Ambassador witnessed the signing of a significant agreement between Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, H.E. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, and Thales, aimed at enhancing collaboration in innovative aerospace solutions.

The French envoy also lauded Airbus’s ‘Little Engineers’ program, which engaged Bahraini youth in hands-on aerospace activities, fostering a new generation of talent in the sector.

Further, the Ambassador further underscored the contributions of Voltaero and Charlatte Manutention, two French companies leading in sustainable aerospace solutions. Voltaero specializes in eco-friendly air-transport innovations, while Charlatte Manutention, known for battery-powered electric vehicles for airport ground support, aligns with Bahrain’s sustainability goals. “These companies bring sustainable air-transport solutions that align with Bahrain’s vision for a greener future,” he noted.

The Bahrain International Airshow 2024 emphasized the pivotal role of French expertise in supporting Bahrain's ambitions in aerospace, defence, and sustainable development. This strong French presence underscores the importance of the enduring partnership between Bahrain and France, as both nations look toward a future of shared progress in aviation and technology.