During the discussions, Fakhro reiterated Bahrain’s determination to diversify its economy and attract foreign direct investment as part of its national development strategy. He stated that the government is “keen to strengthen international relations and accelerate investment flows” in line with the country’s economic blueprint. Schembri affirmed Malta’s readiness to explore deeper ties with Gulf partners, observing that Malta’s status as a European Union member and its strategic location make it a valuable gateway for Mediterranean-Middle East partnerships.
The economic frameworks of the two countries provide fertile ground for collaboration. Bahrain’s investment climate has been assessed as positive and relatively stable by external reviews, which point to pro-business reforms, a regulatory regime oriented to attract foreign capital, and incentives for non-oil sectors. Malta, in parallel, has recently bolstered its digital economy, launching a venture-capital initiative and maintaining a regulatory environment appealing to fintech and tech-enabled firms. These features, according to analysts, make Malta an attractive target for Bahrain-based investors seeking access to European markets.
Key sectors earmarked for enhanced cooperation include digital infrastructure and transport logistics. Bahrain’s transportation ministry noted that discussions included partnerships on digital-twin systems and smart mobility architectures, with Malta contributing expertise through its digital innovation ecosystem. These initiatives reflect a broader global trend whereby small open economies leverage niche capabilities—such as fintech, logistics, and digital innovation—to punch above their weight in cross-border investment.
Simultaneously, both governments examined ways to reduce structural barriers. Bahrain has been repositioning itself under its Economic Vision 2030 to reduce reliance on oil and build a competitive private sector, while Malta has been addressing regulatory scrutiny arising from its financial-services sector and citizenship-by-investment schemes. Discussions with Bahrain thus carry additional significance, as Malta pursues diversified partnerships beyond Europe and North Africa.
From a strategic investment standpoint, Bahrain and Malta aim to move from dialogue to implementation. Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund and private-sector investment vehicles could tap Malta’s start-up ecosystem or finance Maltese tech scale-ups looking to expand in the Gulf. Conversely, Maltese firms may seek access to Bahrain’s logistics hubs and network links into Saudi Arabia and other GCC markets. Executives present at the meeting described the opportunity as “mutually complementary”: Bahrain offers regional connectivity and capital, while Malta offers EU access and digital-innovation platforms.
Topics
Bahrain