India and Bahrain have agreed to strengthen their partnership in combating terrorism through enhanced cooperation in intelligence sharing, cyber security, and capacity building. Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, both countries jointly condemned terrorism in all its forms and reaffirmed their firm commitment to fighting cross-border terrorism. This development reflects India’s growing focus on building regional security cooperation to counter external threats.

Operation Sindoor – India’s Strategic Response

After the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This was India’s most extensive counter-strike since the Balakot airstrikes (2019) and Uri surgical strikes (2016). The operation demonstrated India’s evolving counter-terrorism doctrine and its proactive approach to safeguarding national security against state-sponsored terrorism.

Strengthening Maritime and Economic Ties

The India–Bahrain meeting also emphasized defence and maritime cooperation. The visit of three Indian naval ships to Bahrain in September 2025 deepened engagement in regional maritime security. Additionally, both sides discussed concluding a Bilateral Investment Treaty and establishing a Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment to enhance economic ties, signaling a holistic partnership covering both security and economic domains.

India–UAE Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power

The UAE is set to establish an “India House” in Abu Dhabi — a cultural centre to promote India–UAE art, education, and youth exchange. During the second India–UAE Cultural Council meeting (October 2025), both sides discussed cooperation in tourism, heritage, and archival collaboration. The UAE also plans to recognize Yoga as a competitive sport, highlighting India’s growing cultural influence and soft power in West Asia.

Strategic Importance for India’s Foreign Policy

Bahrain and the UAE hold major strategic importance for India’s foreign and security policy. These partnerships enhance India’s presence in West Asia, ensure energy and maritime security, and strengthen regional cooperation against terrorism. The deepening of both security and cultural ties reflects India’s multi-dimensional foreign policy, balancing hard power (defence cooperation) and soft power (cultural diplomacy).

UPSC Relevance:

• Prelims: Current events of national & international importance.
• Mains (GS Paper II & III): Bilateral relations, internal security, role of external and non-state actors, and cultural diplomacy.