In a significant step toward strengthening regional cooperation, Bahrain and Cyprus have signed a landmark security agreement aimed at deepening collaboration in intelligence, defense, and counterterrorism a move hailed as a “historic milestone” in bilateral relations.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the General Secretariat of Bahrain’s Supreme Defense Council and the National Security Council of Cyprus on the sidelines of the 21st IISS Regional Security Summit – Manama Dialogue 2025.
The agreement was inked by Lieutenant General Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s National Security Advisor, Royal Guard Commander, and Secretary General of the Supreme Defense Council, and Tasos Tzionis, Cyprus’s National Security Advisor and Director of the Intelligence Service.
The signing ceremony was attended by Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, Deputy National Security Advisor and Deputy Secretary General of the Supreme Defense Council, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Strategic Security Bure
Sheikh Nasser described the agreement as part of Bahrain’s broader vision to expand its international security collaborations and enhance coordination with global partners in tackling shared challenges.
The strong relations between Bahrain and Cyprus have seen continuous growth in various fields, Sheikh Nasser said.
This partnership reflects mutual trust and the willingness to develop effective cooperation in the face of global changes, with security and economic aspects at the forefront.
He said the agreement would enhance information exchange, joint training, and strategic coordination between the two nations, particularly in areas of intelligence sharing and combating transnational threats.
The memorandum also lays the foundation for regular bilateral meetings and operational coordination, with the objective of strengthening regional and international stability.
Officials said the strategic memorandum is expected to contribute to the advancement of regional security networks by facilitating the exchange of intelligence, capacity-building, and coordination against emerging threats such as cyber warfare, organized crime, and maritime security challenges.
This strategic agreement underscores Bahrain’s role as a bridge between the Gulf and the Mediterranean, a senior Bahraini official told DAAR, adding that Manama seeks to position itself as a key player in regional and global security dialogues.
Cyprus, a European Union member, has in recent years enhanced defence cooperation with several Middle Eastern states, particularly on maritime security and counterterrorism areas seen as critical amid increasing geopolitical volatility in the region.
In addition to the security accord, Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos met with his Bahraini counterpart, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, to discuss ways to expand bilateral cooperation beyond defense.
Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, while exchanging views on the latest regional and international developments, including the Gaza crisis, Red Sea maritime stability, and global energy security.
Kombos also participated in a panel discussion on “Maritime Security as a Regional and Global Responsibility” during the Manama Dialogue, while Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa delivered the keynote address, emphasizing collective regional action and strategic foresight in addressing transnational threats.
The annual Manama Dialogue, organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), serves as one of the Middle East’s most prominent security forums, bringing together defense ministers, military chiefs, and policymakers from around the world to discuss global and regional security issues.
This year’s summit focused on shifting power dynamics, maritime security, and intelligence cooperation, reflecting growing international efforts to strengthen multilateral defense frameworks amid evolving threats.
Security analysts said the Bahrain–Cyprus accord marked a strategic convergence between Europe and the Gulf, underlining both countries’ shared interest in maritime safety, counterterrorism, and intelligence cooperation.
Bahrain’s engagement with Cyprus adds a new Mediterranean dimension to Gulf security diplomacy, said a regional analyst. It reflects Bahrain’s proactive approach in building a network of partnerships that extend beyond the Middle East.