Bahrain and the UK have formalized two significant agreements on Thursday during an official visit to London by Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa. The agreements were finalized at No. 10 Downing Street following discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Credit: Arab News

One of the key agreements established is the Strategic Investment and Collaboration Partnership (SIP2). This partnership represents a renewed framework for two-way investment between Bahrain and the UK, allowing for £2 billion ($2.7 billion) of investment from Bahrain’s private sector into vital UK sectors such as financial services, technology, manufacturing, and decarbonization. The signing was executed by Bahrain’s finance minister, Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa, alongside British Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves.

The second agreement is the Defense Cooperation Accord. This accord is intended to enhance interoperability and joint training between the armed forces of both nations, building on an existing strong naval partnership. The deal was signed by the defense ministers, Lt. Gen. Abdullah Al-Nuaimi and John Healey.

While meeting with Starmer, Prince Salman emphasized the strengthening ties between their countries, which he noted continue to develop under the leadership of King Hamad and King Charles, as reported by the Bahrain News Agency.

The leaders also discussed the ongoing progress of a proposed UK-Gulf Cooperation Council free trade agreement. The crown prince welcomed the UK’s decision to fully engage in the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement, following a joint invitation from Bahrain and the US in December.

During their discussions, regional and international developments were a major focus, particularly the recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran. Both Prince Salman and Starmer expressed their concern and agreed on the critical need to deescalate the situation, ease tensions, and resume dialogue.

They reiterated prior calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the provision of unhindered humanitarian access to the region, and the release of all hostages held by Hamas.

Starmer also congratulated Bahrain on its recent election as a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council for a two-year term starting in January 2026, and both leaders committed to collaborating closely to enhance their diplomatic initiatives ahead of this term.