The key facts

  • The King of Bahrain and Sergey Lavrov discussed coordination in regional security and the protection of waterways and trade routes.
  • Lavrov arrived in Bahrain on October 17 and on October 18 took part in the ninth joint ministerial meeting of the GCC–Russia Strategic Dialogue.
  • The discussions took place amid tensions between Iran and the US over freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Meeting in Manama

King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Sunday, October 18. According to the Bahrain News Agency, the sides emphasized the importance of coordination for strengthening regional security, as well as protecting waterways and trade routes. Lavrov arrived in Bahrain on Saturday, October 17.

GCC–Russia Dialogue

On Sunday, Lavrov took part in the ninth joint ministerial meeting of the Strategic Dialogue between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Russia. According to the agency, the meeting featured 'an exchange of views on key regional and international issues and current efforts to promote security, stability and peace in the region.'

Bilateral Relations

The sides also reviewed bilateral ties. The King affirmed 'mutual commitment to expanding cooperation in various sectors in line with the aspirations of both countries and peoples.' Lavrov, according to the agency, thanked the monarch for the warm reception and the efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.

Context of Tensions

The talks took place against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between Iran and the US over freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz — a key route for global oil and gas supplies. According to Anadolu, maritime traffic through the strait has been severely disrupted since February 28, when the US and Israel began attacks against Iran.