INTERVIEW bahrainthismonth.com | OCTOBER 2025 16 In May 2024, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa visited China and, together with the Chinese President Xi Jinping, announced the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Bahrain and China. As the Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, how do you assess the development of this partnership? Bahrain is a good friend and partner of China in the Gulf region. Over the 36 years of diplomatic relations, the two countries have consistently treated each other with sincerity and maintained friendly interactions, ensuring steady and healthy development of bilateral ties. In May 2024, President Xi Jinping and His Majesty King Hamad jointly announced the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership, which is a milestone in bilateral relations. Over the past year, both sides have actively implemented the consensus reached by the two heads of state and steadily advanced the partnership. Political mutual trust has deepened, with both sides firmly supporting each other on issues concerning core interests and major concerns. China supports and once again congratulates Bahrain on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. Economic cooperation has flourished, with bilateral trade reaching $2.305 billion in 2024, a year-on-year increase of 5.35 percent. Chinese cars are now widely seen on Bahraini streets, becoming the top choice for many families. Cultural exchanges are also thriving. Direct flights between Bahrain and China were launched in May 2024, and in June China introduced a unilateral visa-free policy for Bahraini citizens. Every month, Bahraini government officials and professionals travel to China for training and exchanges. The Confucius Institute at the University of Bahrain and private schools are expanding Chinese language teaching. Cultural events such as tourism exhibitions, painting displays and art performances have introduced Chinese traditions to Bahraini audiences. Looking ahead, China is ready to continue supporting Bahrain, pursuing common development and delivering tangible benefits through practical cooperation in multiple fields. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit was recently held in Tianjin. Could you provide an overview of the Summit and its main achievements? It was the fifth time China hosted the event and the largest summit since the organisation’s founding. President Xi Jinping chaired the Council of Heads of State and the ‘SCO Plus’ meeting, with 23 foreign leaders and representatives of 10 international organisations. The Summit produced eight major outcomes, including the adoption of the SCO’s development strategy for the next decade, the decision to establish an SCO Development Bank, four new security cooperation centres, six cooperation platforms and six high-quality development action plans. Leaders also reaffirmed safeguarding the achievements of World War II, supported multilateral trade systems and advanced reforms within the SCO. This Summit was held at a pivotal moment, marked by unity and significant achievements, propelling the SCO into a new phase of highquality development. As a dialogue partner, The Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Ni Ruchi, shares insights on the growing partnership between the two countries, wider regional cooperation and global challenges, reflecting Beijing’s stance on diplomacy, peace and international development. Partners in Progress
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