Speaking during a meeting yesterday morning with H.E. Mr. Eric Giraud-Telme, Ambassador of the French Republic to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Kanoo stated that Bahrain has demonstrated an integrated approach to economic management under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. This approach, particularly amid current developments, has been based on the integration of government policies with the efforts of the private sector and financial institutions within an advanced coordination framework, contributing to the stability of the local market and mitigating the impact of geopolitical tensions.
He noted that the hostile Iranian attacks against Bahrain and their unjustified targeting of the Kingdom’s economy demonstrated the high level of resilience and flexibility of the national economy, as well as its ability to absorb shocks and adapt to external pressures.
Kanoo praised the advanced level reached by Bahrain-France relations and the continued growth and development of bilateral cooperation across various fields, particularly in the economic, financial, and banking sectors. He affirmed the private sector’s commitment to strengthening this strategic partnership in a manner that serves the shared interests of both countries, particularly in light of the notable growth in bilateral trade. Total trade between Bahrain and France reached approximately USD 757.9 million in 2025, representing a 76.7% increase compared to the previous year, reflecting the growing momentum of economic activity between the two countries.
He stressed the importance of accelerating joint projects between the private sectors of Bahrain and France by capitalizing on promising opportunities in priority sectors, particularly economic and financial activities and value-added industries. Such efforts, he noted, would contribute to deepening the investment partnership and enhancing trade integration between the two sides.
Kanoo further emphasized that broadening the scope of cooperation between the business communities of the two friendly countries would support sustainable economic growth, strengthen reciprocal investment flows, and enhance the effective utilization of the competitive advantages enjoyed by both sides.
For his part, the French Ambassador extended his sincere congratulations to the Chamber’s Board of Directors on the occasion of the commencement of its 31st term, wishing them continued success in their efforts to support the business community. He expressed his aspiration to further strengthen bilateral relations and exchange expertise in a manner that serves the aspirations of both friendly countries, while wishing the Kingdom of Bahrain and its people continued progress and prosperity.
