Bahrain and Spain announced plans to upgrade defense, trade, tourism and cultural relations. This came as HRM King Hamad of Bahrain held official talks with Spanish King Juan Carlos at Gudaibiya Palace on May1.

The King welcomed the Spanish monarch and his delegation, commending his role in promoting GCC-Spanish economic and trade co-operation.

The two leaders reviewed deep-rooted historic relations bonding Bahrain and Spain and discussed regional and international developments.

They reiterated keenness on bolstering political, economic, trade, cultural and tourism relations and boosting investment - stressing the need for more efforts to develop joint ventures, activate signed agreements and exchange visits.

King Hamad underscored the importance of the Spanish King's visit in deepening ties and lauded the pivotal role of Spain and its contribution to consolidating global peace.

King Carlos thanked King Hamad for the warm welcome and genuine hospitality. He hailed the positive results of official talks and said it would bolster bilateral relations.

He also credited King Hamad for Bahrain's development strides in all fields.

A defense cooperation agreement was signed in the presence of the two leaders. Both sides also discussed ways of promoting joint cooperation between the two friendly countries. 

Minister of State for Defense Affairs Lt-General Dr. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa sealed the deal with his Spanish counterpart Dr. Pedro Morenes.

Culture Minister Sheikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Spanish Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism Jose Manuel Soria Lopez.

King Hamad hosted a lunch banquet in honor of King Carlos and his delegation.

Source: BNA; Gulf Daily News