As the German Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, HE Clemens Hach is in his third year of overseeing diplomatic relations between the two countries. With extensive experience in international crises and diplomacy, Ambassador Hach’s tenure in Bahrain is marked by fostering strong bilateral relations, enhancing business ties and promoting cultural exchange. Kristian Harrison sat down with him to discuss his career, the German-Bahraini relationship, and areas of mutual interest with a particular focus on renewable energy, education and trade.
Your Excellency, thank you for taking the time to chat with us! Can you tell us about your diplomatic journey to date and how you are finding your stint in Bahrain?
Thank you for having me. I’ve been in the diplomatic service for about 25 years. Throughout my career, I’ve had postings in Latin America, East Africa, the United States, and spent significant time at headquarters in Berlin, often working on international crises. For instance, I dealt with Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq when Daesh was threatening these countries. My last assignment before Bahrain was in crisis prevention, peace building, and stabilisation, with a focus on West Africa. I came to Bahrain in 2022, and I am now entering my third year here.
Bahrain has been an incredibly welcoming place for me and my family. The island’s culture of hospitality is evident everywhere, making it a truly enchanting experience. Professionally, Bahrain’s diplomacy is impressive, punching above its weight, especially regarding efforts toward peace and reconciliation in the Middle East. This environment has allowed me to build on the strong people-to-people relations between our two countries.
Bahrain is a relatively small country, especially compared to regional powerhouses like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. How does Bahrain maintain its strong standing in global diplomacy?
Bahrain’s strength lies in its principled and moderate stance, coupled with moral authority and leadership that has earned it credibility in diplomatic circles. Despite its size, Bahrain’s leadership makes bold decisions that contribute to peace and stability in the region. The country’s ability to maintain a balanced, pragmatic approach has solidified its role as a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
What are the main areas of cooperation between Germany and Bahrain, particularly in business and the economy?
While Bahrain is a relatively small market, it offers a business-friendly environment with excellent regional connectivity. This has attracted several German companies, such as DHL, which has its regional headquarters here, and Hannover Re, one of the leading global reinsurers and a major player in Islamic reinsurance. German petrochemical giant BASF has a production facility in Bahrain and we also see engagement from smaller firms in the industry.
Beyond individual companies, strong ties between German and Bahraini businesses have developed through decades of partnerships, particularly within family-owned businesses. This cooperation strengthens our bilateral relations and creates lasting economic links.
Germany is known for its world leadership in renewable energy. How are you working with Bahrain on sustainability and renewable energy projects?
Germany has been at the forefront of renewable energy, and we’re eager to share our expertise with Bahrain as it pursues ambitious environmental goals, like net-zero carbon emissions by mid-century. We’ve collaborated on several initiatives, including a partnership between the German Technical Cooperation and Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Environment to establish environmental baselines.
On the technology side, the Fraunhofer Institutes in Germany are working with the University of Bahrain on solar panels adapted for hot climates. The research aims to improve the efficiency of solar panels in high temperatures, a significant challenge here in Bahrain. At the embassy, we’ve also installed solar panels in partnership with a Bahraini company, reducing our electricity consumption by about 20 percent.
Cultural exchange is another important part of diplomacy. What is the German Embassy doing to promote German culture in Bahrain?
This year, we are organising ‘German Weeks’ in Bahrain, starting with the Oktoberfest at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, Manama, and a German jazz concert at the Cultural Hall, coinciding with the Day of German Unity on October 3. Additionally, the big band of the German Armed Forces will perform on October 9, showcasing jazz, swing and even pop. We’re also partnering with Alosra to showcase German food products.
On a broader level, we contribute to cultural events such as the Spring of Culture and the International Music Festival, regularly bringing German music and art to Bahrain. These efforts help deepen the cultural ties between our two nations.
What can you tell us about the German community in Bahrain?
The German community in Bahrain is relatively small, with about 400 citizens, including those working in Saudi Arabia but living here. Many work at Bahraini or German businesses, and there is also a significant presence of German doctors. One of the most exciting developments has been the reactivation of the Bahraini-German Friendship Association, which promotes cultural and people-to-people exchanges. The association will also soon offer German language courses, further strengthening ties.
Germany is a popular destination for Bahrainis, both for tourism and education. What is the embassy doing to promote these sectors?
Germany remains a top destination for Bahrainis, especially for medical tourism and leisure travel, with Bavaria being particularly popular. Gulf Air now offers direct flights to both Munich and Frankfurt, making travel more convenient. Bavaria, with its mountains, lakes and castles, is a fantastic gateway to Europe.
In terms of education, Germany offers high-quality, affordable education, with many courses available in English. Tuition fees are minimal, around EUR300 to EUR400 per semester, making it one of the most cost-effective places to study in Europe. We are working with the Bahraini-German Friendship Association to resume German language courses, which will open up further educational opportunities for Bahrainis.
Looking ahead, what goals do you hope to achieve during the remainder of your tenure?
One of my main goals is to strengthen people-to-people relations. The Bahraini-German Friendship Association is a significant step in this direction, and I will continue to support its growth. Economically, we are exploring the creation of a European Chamber of Commerce to further promote business ties, not just between Germany and Bahrain, but with all of Europe.
On the political front, I am pleased with the strong relations we’ve built between senior officials in our two governments. I hope to facilitate more high-level visits from Germany to Bahrain during my remaining time here, further cementing our diplomatic ties.
Finally, is there a message you’d like to share with the German community in Bahrain?
I’d like to thank the German community for being ambassadors of Germany here in Bahrain. Your contributions to Bahrain’s development and your role in fostering German-Bahraini relations are invaluable. I look forward to continuing to work with you to further strengthen the friendship between our two countries.
