Türkiye and Bahrain Celebrate 52 Years of Diplomatic Relations

TDT | Manama

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The Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Her Excellency Mrs. Ayşe Hilal Sayan Koytak, has reaffirmed the enduring strength of Turkish-Bahraini ties on the occasion of the 52nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

In a commemorative statement, Ambassador Koytak highlighted the profound historical, cultural, and human connections that long preceded the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973. “The heartfelt friendship between our people is tangible,” she said, noting that the bilateral relationship has steadily grown across sectors including diplomacy, education, trade, and tourism.

“Guided by mutual respect, shared interests, and a strong sense of regional responsibility, Türkiye and Bahrain enjoy a resilient and forward-looking partnership,” the ambassador affirmed.

Ambassador Koytak praised Bahrain’s role in promoting regional and international peace, describing the Kingdom as a “voice of wisdom and moderation.” She emphasized the continued commitment of both countries’ leadership—President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye and His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain—to seizing every opportunity that strengthens bilateral cooperation.

Reflecting on recent milestones, the ambassador pointed to the official visit of His Excellency Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of Bahrain’s Council of Representatives, to Türkiye earlier this year. The visit, held at the invitation of Turkish Parliament Speaker Prof. Dr. Numan Kurtulmuş, marked a promising start to 2025.

Ambassador Koytak also acknowledged the recent participation of Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, describing it as a further testament to the “shared diplomatic vision and solidarity” between the two countries.

However, she stressed that the true depth of the relationship goes beyond formal exchanges and trade statistics. “It is in the hospitality of a Bahraini home that welcomes Turkish guests with open arms,” she said, recalling her personal experiences during Ramadan majlises across Bahrain. “Bahraini hospitality and kindness is exceptional.”

She noted that the friendship between the two nations is also reflected in student exchanges, cultural curiosity, and tourism—everyday moments that continue to knit the fabric of people-to-people connections.

On this special occasion, Ambassador Koytak extended her gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, and the people of Bahrain for their “unwavering support and partnership.”

She also paid tribute to the Turkish community in Bahrain, whom she described as “our biggest source of pride and joy” and cultural ambassadors of Türkiye.

“May the bonds between Türkiye and Bahrain grow ever stronger—rooted in respect, enriched by cooperation, and lifted by the winds of common ideals,” she concluded.