Switzerland has maintained diplomatic relations with Bahrain since 1971. Today, relations are mainly focused on economy, trade and human rights.
Bilateral relations Switzerland–Bahrain
Key aspects of diplomatic relations
Switzerland's interests in the Kingdom of Bahrain are represented by the Swiss embassy in Abu Dhabi. Switzerland maintains an honorary consulate in the Bahraini capital Manama.
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in Paris also covers Switzerland.
Economic cooperation
Bahrain is an important regional hub and thus an attractive location for Swiss financial institutions. Switzerland and Bahrain concluded an agreement on civil aviation in 1986, followed in 2004 by an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation in air and sea transport. A free trade agreement between the European Free Trade Association and the Gulf Cooperation Council states came into force in 2014.
Cooperation in education, research and innovation
Researchers and artists from Bahrain can apply to the State Secretariat for Education Research and Innovation (SERI) for Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists, SERI
Swiss nationals in Bahrain
At the end of 2018, 106 Swiss citizens were living in Bahrain.
History of bilateral relations
Switzerland recognised the Kingdom of Bahrain in 1971.
