business ties — business ties — Cyprus and Bahrain can still unlock substantial economic opportunities, President Nikos Christodoulides stated during his address at the inaugural Cyprus-Bahrain Business Forum on Monday. This key event is part of the president’s official visit to Bahrain, aimed at bolstering business relations between the two nations.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Business ties: Strengthening Economic Cooperation
Christodoulides emphasised that the forum marks the first step in harnessing what he described as largely untapped potential between Cyprus and Bahrain. He highlighted the strategic positions of both countries, their economic dynamism, and their shared roles as bridges between various regions and markets.
Linking Bilateral Relations to EU Presidency
The president also connected the importance of bilateral cooperation to Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union. He identified this relationship as a clear priority, suggesting that Bahrain could become a vital partner in this endeavour, especially as regional and European frameworks increasingly align.
“I firmly believe that our Presidency, as well as the Bahraini Presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council–EU for 2026 and the second EU–GCC summit scheduled during our Presidency, are not only important milestones,” he articulated. “They are also opportunities to deepen political dialogue, strengthen economic cooperation, and translate common interests into tangible results.”
Investment Opportunities in Cyprus
Turning to Cyprus’ investment landscape, Christodoulides assured Bahraini investors of a stable and predictable EU-based platform. He noted that Cyprus serves as an entry point to Europe, providing full access to the Single Market and the Eurozone, supported by a modern, transparent, and business-friendly regulatory framework.
He pointed out that structural reforms initiated this year further enhance the investment climate. “Our competitive tax system, strengthened by the tax reform in force since January 2026, is linked to the digitalisation of public services, targeted administrative reforms, and ongoing efforts to reduce bureaucracy,” he explained. These developments, he asserted, create an environment conducive to business planning, investment, and growth.
Exploring Sectors for Collaboration
In his address, Christodoulides identified specific sectors where cooperation could be intensified. “I firmly believe that there is significant potential to further deepen our cooperation in financial services, investment, technology, and digital innovation,” he stated. He also mentioned construction, infrastructure, and connectivity as areas where the comparative advantages of both nations align.
Moreover, he acknowledged Bahrain’s role as a regional hub for Cypriot companies, stating that it continues to serve as a strategic gateway for firms aiming to expand into the Gulf and the broader Middle East. This reinforces the mutual and complementary nature of the economic relationship between the two countries.
Long-term Partnerships Built on Trust
President Christodoulides urged both nations to focus on supporting and expanding their cooperation for the mutual benefit of their companies, economies, and peoples. “Let us therefore focus on further supporting and expanding this cooperation for the mutual benefit of our companies, our economies, and our peoples,” he encouraged.
He concluded by expressing Cyprus’ desire for partnerships that are strategic, long-term, and built on trust. His presence in Bahrain reflects his strong belief that significant economic potential remains to be unlocked between Cyprus and Bahrain.
