Partners in Progress
by: BTM - Tue, 07 Oct 2025
The Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Ni Ruchi, shares insights on the growing partnership between the two countries, wider regional cooperation and global challenges, reflecting Beijing’s stance on diplomacy, peace and international development.
In May 2024, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa visited China and, together with the Chinese President Xi Jinping, announced the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Bahrain and China. As the Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, how do you assess the development of this partnership?
Bahrain is a good friend and partner of China in the Gulf region. Over the 36 years of diplomatic relations, the two countries have consistently treated each other with sincerity and maintained friendly interactions, ensuring steady and healthy development of bilateral ties. In May 2024, President Xi Jinping and His Majesty King Hamad jointly announced the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership, which is a milestone in bilateral relations.
Over the past year, both sides have actively implemented the consensus reached by the two heads of state and steadily advanced the partnership. Political mutual trust has deepened, with both sides firmly supporting each other on issues concerning core interests and major concerns. China supports and once again congratulates Bahrain on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
Economic cooperation has flourished, with bilateral trade reaching $2.305 billion in 2024, a year-on-year increase of 5.35 percent. Chinese cars are now widely seen on Bahraini streets, becoming the top choice for many families.
Cultural exchanges are also thriving. Direct flights between Bahrain and China were launched in May 2024, and in June China introduced a unilateral visa-free policy for Bahraini citizens. Every month, Bahraini government officials and professionals travel to China for training and exchanges. The Confucius Institute at the University of Bahrain and private schools are expanding Chinese language teaching. Cultural events such as tourism exhibitions, painting displays and art performances have introduced Chinese traditions to Bahraini audiences.
Looking ahead, China is ready to continue supporting Bahrain, pursuing common development and delivering tangible benefits through practical cooperation in multiple fields.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit was recently held in Tianjin. Could you provide an overview of the Summit and its main achievements?
It was the fifth time China hosted the event and the largest summit since the organisation’s founding. President Xi Jinping chaired the Council of Heads of State and the ‘SCO Plus’ meeting, with 23 foreign leaders and representatives of 10 international organisations.
The Summit produced eight major outcomes, including the adoption of the SCO’s development strategy for the next decade, the decision to establish an SCO Development Bank, four new security cooperation centres, six cooperation platforms and six high-quality development action plans. Leaders also reaffirmed safeguarding the achievements of World War II, supported multilateral trade systems and advanced reforms within the SCO.
This Summit was held at a pivotal moment, marked by unity and significant achievements, propelling the SCO into a new phase of high-quality development. As a dialogue partner, Bahrain is welcome and encouraged to actively participate in its activities.
During the ‘SCO Plus’ meeting, President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Governance Initiative, which has received strong international attention. What are its core principles, and what does China expect from it?
The highlight of the Tianjin Summit was the Global Governance Initiative proposed by President Xi. It addresses today’s governance deficit by calling for sovereign equality, adherence to international law, multilateralism, a people-centred approach and action-oriented solutions.
These five principles align with the UN Charter and provide a pathway for reforming global governance so it can more effectively respond to today’s challenges. 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the UN and the victory in World War II, making this initiative timely. It has already received strong support from world leaders and international organisations and is expected to gain broader recognition globally.
This year marks the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Beijing hosted a military parade on September 3. How do you evaluate the message conveyed to the world?
September 3 is a day of remembrance for China and all peace-loving nations. The military parade in Beijing, attended by 61 foreign leaders and representatives, was a solemn occasion to honour history, cherish peace and look to the future.
The commemorations reminded the world that humanity’s future is shared. Only by treating each other equally, coexisting harmoniously and supporting one another can countries ensure security and prevent the recurrence of tragedies.
The parade highlighted China’s sacrifices and contributions during World War II, sending a clear message: China is committed to upholding the post-war order, defending fairness and justice and promoting peace. China will always remain a force for stability and progress and is ready to work with Bahrain and others to uphold these values.
The conflict in Gaza continues, raising humanitarian concerns globally. What is China’s position on this issue?
China’s position on the Palestinian issue has always been clear. We firmly stand with the Palestinian people, with justice and morality. Gaza belongs to the Palestinians and is an inseparable part of their territory. Without the implementation of the two-state solution, the cycle of violence will not end, and peace in the Middle East cannot be guaranteed.
China calls for a comprehensive ceasefire with urgency, alleviation of the humanitarian crisis, adherence to the principle of ‘Palestinian governance by Palestinians’, support for Palestinian unity and the implementation of the two-state solution.
China stands ready to work with Bahrain and the international community to end the conflict, ease humanitarian suffering, and achieve a comprehensive and just resolution of the Palestinian issue.
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