Issues of Kazakh-Bahraini cooperation in transport, logistics, and space spheres discussed in Manama

On November 19, 2020, H.E. Mr. Berik Aryn, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Bahrain, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications of Bahrain.

During the meeting, the parties discussed issues of establishing cooperation in the field of civil aviation, logistics, and space science and technology activities.

Ambassador Berik Aryn informed the minister about the Kazakh Government’s measures and priorities for further diversification of its economy, including in the field of transport and logistics. He also briefed on the current activities of Kazakhstan's aerospace industry.

In this regard, a significant transit potential of Kazakhstan was noted in light of the implementation of projects within the Eurasian Transport Corridor and the Belt and Road Initiative, covering the vast territory of Eurasia – from China to Europe and other countries of Africa and the Middle East.

The Kazakh diplomat stressed the introduction of the "open skies" regime at 11 airports in Kazakhstan, allowing foreign airlines to use the fifth degree of "freedom of the air" in areas where Kazakhstan carriers do not operate. He also informed about the simplification of the "visa regime" for citizens of Bahrain and other Gulf countries, noting that all these measures intend to provide the necessary conditions for developing tourism and other business activities.

In his turn, Minister Kamal Mohammed agreed on the importance of opening direct flights between the countries to enhance trade and economic ties and expand business contacts and tourist trips. Therefore, he promised to study this issue together with Bahrain airlines after the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister also perceived with great interest the possibility of establishing cooperation with Kazakhstan in the field of space. According to him, Bahrain is just starting work on the exploration and development of outer space. In this regard, he expressed interest in establishing a partnership with Kazakhstan, whose experience would be useful to the Bahraini side.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue work on opening direct flights between Kazakhstan and Bahrain after overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic and establish contacts between space agencies and institutions of the two countries for further exchange of experience and knowledge, implementation of joint projects and events, etc.