HM the King congratulated President Hollande on his election, wishing him every success in leading France and its friendly people to achieve further progress and prosperity and continue the pioneering French role in advocating the causes of global peace and security.
The two leaders discussed strong historic relations enjoyed by the countries and peoples, particularly economic, trade, defence, cultural and educational cooperation as well as investments.
They underscored the crucial importance of holding exhibitions and cultural events in building bridges between countries and peoples in the world.
They also spotlighted latest regional and international developments as well as the efforts to achieve peace and maintain security and stability in the region, stressing joint resolve to step up bilateral coordination and consultation for the sake of both countries and peoples.
“We are on visit to France to congratulate President Hollande on his election and discuss key issues relating to the Gulf security and stability, stressing the French contribution in this regard”, HM the King said.
HM the King said that talks focused on the importance of Bahrain-French partnership in all fields, pointing out the key French role in maintaining regional security and stability.
“We stressed the necessity to continue consultation between Bahrain and France in all fields”, he said, stressing strong bilateral relations.
The two sides voiced deep concerns over the continuous bloodshed in Syria, stressing the urgency of put an end to the Syrian Crisis.
They agreed to coordinate stances regarding energy security, free naval movement in the Arabian Gulf region, in addition to combating all forms of terror and extremism.
They also agreed on the importance of promoting democracy and human rights, combating nuclear proliferation and all forms of weapons of mass destruction and maintaining peace in the Middle East.
His Majesty King Hamad invited French President Francois Hollande to pay an official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
“We look forward to bolstering Bahraini-French relations on the sidelines of President Hollande’s visit to Manama soon,” HM said.
Bahrain also requested required French technical support and expertise specialized in the strategic issues bonding the GCC and Europe.
The two sides hailed the signing of a key project to expand Alba smelter using French technology.
French BNP Paribas Bank will take part in the project in a deal costing $2.5 billion.
The two leaders agreed to consolidate bilateral military cooperation, towards achieving GCC military complementarities for the sake of regional security.
A joint committee will also be set up within the framework of military cooperation agreement sealed between both Governments.
The two sides also agreed to teach the French language at all educational standards in Bahrain.
A high joint coordination committee will also be established to follow up the implementation of the memorandum of understanding towards boosting bilateral cooperation.
HM the King reaffirmed Bahrain’s firm resolve to continue the reform momentum in all fields towards achieving all desired ambitions and goals.
He also extended thanks to President Hollande on the warm welcome during the meeting, thus reflecting solid Bahraini-French relations.