The Bahrain India Society, a prominent organization dedicated to fostering stronger ties between Bahrain and India, hosted a special luncheon to welcome His Excellency Mr. Vinod K Jacob, the newly appointed Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
In his inaugural speech at the gathering, Ambassador Vinod K Jacob expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he has received since presenting his credentials to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The Deputy King conveyed greetings and best wishes from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to Her Excellency, President of India, Ms. Droupadi Murmu, and extended his own greetings to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Ambassador Jacob highlighted the strong bonds between the two nations, emphasizing Bahrain’s appreciation for India’s recent achievements, including the Chandrayaan 3 Mission to the moon and India’s successful G20 Presidency. He noted Bahrain’s endorsement of the Economic Corridor Project, which will link India with Europe through the Middle East region.
Mr. Abdulrahman Mohammed Juma, Chairman of Bahrain India Society, further emphasized the Society’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation between India and Bahrain, noting the agreements signed with Indian commercial representative bodies, official visits to India, and networking initiatives aimed at facilitating business opportunities between the two nations. He also highlighted Bahrain’s recent Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) with the US, stating, “This puts Bahrain in a very advantageous position as a trade partner with India, and at BIS, we are excited to push for new avenues of commercial cooperation with Indian companies. We look to you and the Embassy of India for support.”
Mr. Juma concluded by inviting Ambassador Jacob to address the gathering, expressing his confidence in Ambassador Jacob’s ability to strengthen Bahrain-India relations.
Ambassador Jacob, who assumed office on August 4, 2023, has already engaged with the vibrant Indian community and participated in cultural celebrations, including the Indian Independence Day on August 15. Mr. Juma commended Ambassador Jacob’s extensive career as a diplomat and his expertise in India-China relations, as well as his fluency in Mandarin.
In his previous role as Deputy High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Ambassador Jacob played a pivotal role in managing humanitarian aid during the pandemic, representing India’s Economic Diplomacy policies, and supporting Sri Lanka during its economic crisis in 2022.
Mr. Juma emphasized the Bahrain India Society’s commitment to providing a platform for promoting warm commercial, cultural, and social relations between Bahrain and India, while Ambassador Jacob’s leadership is expected to further strengthen these bonds.