Relations with Thailand and the Hakeem al-Araibi Incident
Bahrain's diplomatic ties with Thailand were thrust into the international spotlight in late 2018 due to the high-profile case of Hakeem al-Araibi, a Bahraini footballer who had been granted refugee status in Australia. Al-Araibi's troubles began when he was arrested in Thailand while on his honeymoon with his wife. His detention stemmed from a 2013 conviction in Bahrain, where he was sentenced in absentia to 10 years in prison for allegedly vandalizing a police station. The gravity of the situation intensified as al-Araibi publicly expressed his fears of being deported back to Bahrain, where he claimed to have suffered torture due to his political beliefs.
The Australian government, along with numerous human rights organizations and advocates, rallied for al-Araibi’s release during his time in Thai detention. They highlighted the dangers he faced if sent back to Bahrain, emphasizing concerns about his treatment at the hands of the Bahraini government. After several months of legal wrangling and international advocacy, the Thai Office of the Attorney-General announced on February 11, 2019, that the extradition case was dropped at Bahrain's request. This decision raised questions regarding Bahrain's human rights practices and its international relations, as the foreign ministry did not disclose the reasons behind the withdrawal, indicating a preference for maintaining diplomatic ties over human rights concerns.
The case also shed light on the historical and robust relationship between Bahrain and Thailand, which many experts believe played a crucial role in the eventual outcome of the al-Araibi incident. According to Dr. Aim Sinpeng, an authority on South-East Asian politics from the University of Sydney, the rapport between the royal families of Thailand and Bahrain has traditionally been close, with annual visits facilitating their strong bonds. In 2012, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul characterized the relationship as "very close and strong," revealing that Bahrain's Prime Minister had developed a personal friendship with former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, even going as far as to contribute approximately $2 million for flood relief efforts in Thailand.
In the realm of economic relations, Bahrain and Thailand have pursued mutual interests in trade and commerce, with plans for a new shopping center in Manama that occupies a sizable footprint of 6,700 square meters. This endeavor is set to serve as a gateway for Thai small and medium enterprises to tap into the Bahraini market, particularly the lucrative base of Saudi shoppers. Trade between the two countries is anticipated to reach around $400 million annually, highlighting the potential economic synergy that exists alongside the diplomatic complexities. These facets of cooperation underline the intertwined nature of their political and economic interactions, marking a significant aspect of their bilateral relations.
Bahrain is an island nation in the Persian Gulf that has established a network of diplomatic relations with numerous countries around the world. The country has a strategic location which has made it an important player in both regional and global politics. Bahrain's foreign relations are characterized by a focus on economic cooperation, security partnerships, and cultural exchange.
Bahrain maintains diplomatic ties with countries from various continents, including the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its relations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait, serve as a foundation for regional collaboration. These alliances are particularly significant in matters concerning security, trade, and investment, given that the Gulf region often experiences political tensions and conflicts.
In addition to its relationships within the GCC, Bahrain has also extended its diplomatic reach to countries like the United States, which has a longstanding presence in the region, underscored by military and economic cooperation. Bahrain’s close military ties with the U.S. include hosting the U.S. Fifth Fleet, which plays a vital role in maintaining maritime security in the Gulf. Furthermore, Bahrain has engaged in diplomatic discussions with countries such as China and India, which have increasingly marked their presence in the Middle East through economic initiatives and investments.
Bahrain's commitment to international cooperation is also reflected in its active participation in various international organizations, such as the United Nations and the Arab League. This involvement enables Bahrain to advocate for regional stability and contribute to global discussions on key issues like climate change and economic development. The nation continues to bolster its diplomatic relations to enhance its international standing, attract foreign investment, and promote its cultural heritage on a global scale. Through a balanced and strategic approach to foreign relations, Bahrain is poised to reinforce its role as a key player in the Middle East and beyond.
Bilateral Relations
Bahrain has established a diverse network of diplomatic relations since gaining independence in 1971, reflecting its strategic position in the Gulf and its aspirations for regional influence. The Kingdom began formal diplomatic ties with key neighboring countries such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar shortly after its independence. The relationship with Saudi Arabia, in particular, has been pivotal due to their geographic proximity and shared interests. Over the years, Bahrain has also expanded its diplomatic reach to include relationships with nations far beyond the Gulf, including the United Kingdom, the United States, and various countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
India has emerged as a significant ally for Bahrain, with historical connections that date back several centuries. The Indian community constitutes a large portion of Bahrain's population, contributing not only to the economy but also enriching the cultural landscape. In recent years, Bahrain's leadership has actively encouraged India's role in international affairs, particularly concerning security issues within the region, including the Iranian nuclear controversy. High-level visits and the establishment of organizations like the Bahrain India Society highlight the efforts to deepen ties across various sectors, including trade, culture, and education. Bahrain’s bilateral trade with India reached $450 million in 2014, signaling robust economic relations.
On the regional front, Bahrain's interactions with Iran have fluctuated dramatically, marked by periods of engagement and hostility. After a series of escalating political tensions, including accusations of Iranian interference in Bahrain's domestic affairs, diplomatic ties were severed in 2016. This decision followed similar actions by Saudi Arabia and signified the rising sectarian and geopolitical rifts in the region. In contrast, relations with Iraq have been steady, as evidenced by the establishment of embassies in each other's capitals, underscoring a commitment to cooperation and regional stability.
An essential development in Bahrain's foreign relations came with the normalization of ties with Israel in September 2020. This historic move, part of the broader Abraham Accords, marked a departure from Bahrain's prior stance of not officially recognizing Israel. The agreement aimed to foster peace and cooperation in the region. However, diplomatic sentiments can shift rapidly, as demonstrated when Bahrain recently recalled its ambassador to Israel in November 2023, marking a reevaluation of its economic and political engagement with the state.
Moreover, Bahrain maintains fruitful relations with various world powers, including members of the European Union such as Italy, Germany, and France, focusing on trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. These relations are supported by embassies operating in both countries' capitals, facilitating diplomatic dialogue and cooperation in various sectors. The Kingdom's efforts to build a robust international presence are evident in its participation in global dialogues, such as the United Nations, where it advocates for collective security measures and regional stability. Overall, Bahrain's diplomatic trajectory reflects its ambitions as a regional player while navigating complex international relations shaped by regional dynamics and historical legacies.