Diplomatic Bridges Strengthened
by: BTM - Thu, 13 Nov 2025
Egypt’s Ambassador to Bahrain, Her Excellency Riham Khalil, reflects on diplomacy, trade, tourism and culture, marking two years in Manama and previewing November’s Grand Egyptian Museum inauguration beside the Pyramids of Giza.
Firstly, could you outline your career path to date, including your previous postings?
I’m a proud Egyptian diplomat with 25 years of experience managing bilateral, multilateral and cultural portfolios. I have had the opportunity to serve in diverse roles in Cairo and abroad. During my diplomatic tenure, I served as Deputy Ambassador at the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in the United Arab Emirates and as a member of the Egyptian Embassy in the United Kingdom. I have also served in several departments within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, handling dossiers such as economic affairs, climate change and consular assistance, in addition to my work at the Institute of Diplomatic Studies and for some time in crisis management.
What are your top three priorities for Egypt–Bahrain relations over the next 12 months, and how will you measure success?
This November marks two years since I assumed my duties as the Egyptian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain and I still can’t comprehend how fast the time has passed. These two years have been filled with warmth, hospitality, events, hard work and success. I have focused from day one on boosting our economic and trade ties, hand in hand with our historical fraternal bilateral relations between our two nations.
Egypt and Bahrain enjoy close relations characterised by strong political, diplomatic, economic and cultural ties. I was proud to witness this relationship flourish under the leadership of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa. Ongoing coordination between the two leaders is particularly important given the situation in the Middle East and the shared desire to establish lasting peace and security.
The visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, witnessed fruitful bilateral meetings with His Excellency Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Egyptian officials, in addition to convening the Egyptian-Bahraini business forum, which marked a new road map for economic and trade partnerships and resulted in signing several agreements in various fields to boost our cooperation. Our governments are focusing on enhancing and maximising economic cooperation so that it is reflected in the bilateral trade volume.
On the political and multilateral front, Egypt and Bahrain see eye to eye on many issues as we strive to ensure peace, security and stability in the region and beyond. The relations between Cairo and Manama stand as a regional and international role model, characterised by strong intertwined relations between the people of both countries as well as an excellent and functional one on the official levels.
Where do you see the greatest potential for bilateral trade and investment growth?
There are key sectors with great potential to further strengthen our economic cooperation, including tourism, industrial partnership, food security, green economy, financial cooperation, communications, IT and logistical service. This is matched by a strong mutual will between Cairo and Manama to boost economic ties and investment opportunities, advanced through a very important governmental mechanism.
The Egyptian-Bahraini Governmental Committee for Commercial, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation, headed by Egypt’s Minister of Finance and Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, over the past two years has built a platform for dialogue and created momentum aimed at driving progress in our economic partnership. It has also played a leading role in identifying potential cooperation opportunities across key sectors.
Tourism is a huge area of collaboration between Egypt and Bahrain; what are the latest figures in this regard as it continues to grow?
Tourism reflects the deep connection between our two brotherly peoples. It is fair to say that both Egyptians and Bahrainis feel at home in each other’s countries as we share the same values and cultural bonds.
We are pleased to see tourism flows increasing steadily and we continue to work together to expand air connectivity and diversify tourism offerings, whether cultural, culinary, sports or medical. Egypt offers a wide variety of destinations that appeal to every taste and we warmly invite our brothers and sisters in Bahrain to experience the depth and diversity of Egypt’s heritage and modern attractions. We are confident that every visit will offer a truly unique experience.
Speaking about tourism, I have to mention our main touristic landmark, the Grand Egyptian Museum. It’s a real gem when it comes to exploring history and civilisation. We look forward to welcoming many tourists from Bahrain and the world to share our pride of Ancient Egypt civilisation and explore its monumental architecture, unique characteristics as well as eternal achievements.
How are you strengthening cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries?
Cultural relations remain a cornerstone of our bilateral ties, reflecting the depth and richness of both civilisations. This bond is expressed through cultural encounters, most recently a tribute to the legendary Umm Kulthum at Bahrain’s National Theatre, as well as through the vibrant Egyptian community that continues to contribute to Bahrain’s progress and prosperity.
We are also working to broaden educational cooperation by promoting academic exchanges, scholarships and greater participation of Bahraini students in Egyptian universities. Looking ahead, we plan several cultural initiatives, including a reception marking the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum. These efforts serve one shared goal: to deepen mutual understanding and celebrate the enduring connection between our two brotherly nations.
Regarding the museum opening in November, please can you tell us more about that and what visitors can expect?
We are proud and excited to announce the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum, one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year. Located beside the Great Pyramids of Giza, the museum is the largest in the world dedicated to a single civilisation. Built with architectural excellence that harmonises with its historic surroundings, it stands as a monumental tribute to the legacy of Ancient Egypt.
The museum will showcase thousands of artefacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun, displayed according to international standards. Visitors will gain perspectives not only on Ancient Egypt but on the evolution of human civilisation itself.
I send an open invitation to all to visit the museum and am confident that it will be an unforgettable experience.
What are the biggest challenges you face in your position as Ambassador?
I consider myself fortunate to serve in the Kingdom of Bahrain where I have experienced nothing but warmth and generosity from the leadership to government officials. I extend appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its constant cooperation and support.
Equally inspiring is the gracious spirit of the Bahraini people, whose kindness and openness motivate me to work to strengthen our historic and strategic partnership. My focus remains on deepening the bonds of friendship, expanding cooperation and ensuring that our shared vision for development and prosperity continues to advance.
What consular services does the Embassy offer to the Egyptian community in support?
The Egyptian community in Bahrain enjoys a safe and prosperous life. I express my sincere gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, as well as members of the Bahraini government, for the care and generosity they extend to our citizens.
At the Embassy, we are committed to serving our community through consular and legal assistance. We strive to ensure that services are delivered swiftly and efficiently, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and brotherhood that defines the relationship between Egypt and Bahrain.
