UK in Bahrain Bahrainthismonth.com 28 May 2024 A HISTORIC MOVE After years of providing essential services and networking opportunities for the Kingdom’s local business community, the Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) has transitioned into the British Chamber of Commerce Bahrain (BCOCB). Kristian Harrison spoke with the BCOCB’s Chairman, Khalid Rashid Al Zayani, and Vice Chair, Paula Boast MBE, about this ground-breaking move and what it means for the future. Can you give us an overview of the BCOCB and its founding? When we started it in 1995, the BBBF was more of a social club with just 16 members than a business entity. Over time, I saw the potential to elevate it into a proper chamber, drawing from my experience with establishing the American Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain (AmCham) and the Bahrain US Business Council. His Majesty’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa gave me a directive to establish the Bahrain British Business Council and this further fuelled this ambition to achieve our ultimate goal to become a full-fledged Chamber, aligning with international standards. Can you walk us through the process of achieving official Chamber status? Negotiations with the UK Chamber were smooth, leading to our establishment under the Ministry of Commerce. While there were administrative changes, the transition was seamless. We’ve adapted our headquarters to suit our evolving needs and expanded our membership offerings with a focus on delivering enhanced services to our members. What’s the BCOCB’s relationship with the UK, especially now as a Chamber of Commerce? With Saudi Arabia as a neighbouring market powerhouse, our strategic location positions us as a gateway for UK businesses eyeing the Gulf region. This proximity, coupled with our strong ties to both Bahrain and the UK, enables us to facilitate bilateral exchanges and serve as a launchpad for exploring new opportunities. What’s the secret to your success? Being a businessman doesn’t restrict you to creating ventures or wealth only for yourself. You have responsibility towards your community and the people of Bahrain. So, if there are any opportunities for us as a group to create something of value to the community and the people of Bahrain, we do not hesitate in doing so. I can name many of the committees, clubs, and associations that were created by devoting time to them, like Bahrain Health and Safety Society, and Bahrain Historical and Archaeological Society, among others. The beauty of this Scan to watch the full interview
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