In a significant diplomatic development, on June 23, the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Islamic Republic of Iran held a bilateral meeting in Tehran, underscoring their ties rooted in religious affinity, neighborhood, shared history, and mutual interests.

The meeting was between Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain's minister of Foreign Affairs, and Ali Bagheri Kani, interim minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran. This visit by Al Zayani was at the invitation of Kani to participate in the Asia Cooperation Dialogue.

During the discussions, both sides expressed a shared commitment to explore the resumption of political relations between the two countries. They agreed to establish necessary mechanisms to initiate these discussions, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties across various domains.

Bahrain 'working' to restore relations with Iran

Earlier in June, Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifah announced his country is working to strengthen diplomatic relations with Iran after strained ties for over eight years. 

During a visit to China, the king made his remarks during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, adding that his country aims for peace, forgiveness, human coexistence, dialogue, and diplomacy. 

He said, "We believe in the principle of good neighborliness and non-interference in internal affairs," adding, "We are working to restore diplomatic relations with Iran as a neighbor."

Hamad expressed his country's appreciation for China's support in promoting peace and stability in West Asia. He also welcomed China's efforts, along with other relevant parties, to address the situation in Palestine.

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