Sayed Hussein Al-Qassab _ “Photography by Suhail Wazir”
The Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Robin Brekelmans, confirmed to Al-Watan that security in Europe and the Middle East are closely interconnected, noting that European countries can contribute to supporting the stability of the region, while Middle Eastern countries can play an important role in strengthening European security, especially in light of the current challenges.
In a special statement during his participation in the Manama Dialogue 2025, the Minister pointed out that there are great opportunities to expand cooperation in the fields of defense industries, explaining that the Netherlands sees the Gulf countries, especially Bahrain, as strategic partners in this field, given the intersection of economic and security interests between the two sides.
The Minister pointed out that the Netherlands attaches special importance to maritime security, as it is a trading country that depends on the stability of maritime navigation routes, adding that this interest intersects with the priorities of Bahrain and the regional countries that share the same interests.
Brekelmans stated that he held fruitful discussions with the Minister of Defense and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, which discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the fields of cybersecurity and maritime security, stressing that the next stage will witness practical steps in this direction.
The minister explained that his country is working on preparing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to be an official framework for defense cooperation between the Netherlands and Bahrain, noting that bilateral relations are moving in a positive direction, and that there is “good progress” in this file.
The Dutch Defense Minister concluded his statement by emphasizing the importance of continuing communication between the two sides, saying: “Let us remain in close communication and work together to enhance common opportunities.”
