As part of Bahrain This Month’s Japan in Bahrain feature, Japanese Ambassador HE Okai Asako discusses the enduring relationship between Japan and Bahrain, highlighting diplomatic, cultural and economic collaborations that pave the way for a brighter, interconnected future.
How would you describe the current state of diplomatic relations between Japan and Bahrain?
Japan and Bahrain share a bond that dates back to 1934, evolving into a comprehensive partnership celebrated on the 50th anniversary of formal diplomacy in 2022. High-level visits, including King Hamad’s trip to Japan in 2012 and Crown Prince Salman’s attendance at Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement in 2019, underscore the mutual respect between our royal and imperial families. These exchanges reflect the strength of our relationship, which continues to explore new avenues of cooperation. I am optimistic about the future of this partnership, which is built on a strong foundation of trust and shared values.
How can Japan and Bahrain collaborate in technology, energy and trade?
Japan is a vital partner in Bahrain’s economy, financing over 20 percent of its electricity and water production through companies like Sumitomo, Kyushu Electric Power and Mitsui & Co. Our contributions extend to the industrial sector, with SULB’s joint venture with Yamato Kogyo leading structural steel production in the Middle East. Japanese firms such as Fuji Electric, Sumitomo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries enhance Alba’s production, while JGC and Yokogawa provide cutting-edge engineering solutions for the oil and gas sector. Japanese vehicles dominate over 50 percentof Bahrain’s automotive market, supported by Toyota’s regional service hub.
Looking ahead, there is immense potential for collaboration in renewable energy, digital transformation and smart cities. Bahrain’s participation in the Osaka Expo 2025, themed ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives,’ presents a unique opportunity to showcase Bahraini products and explore innovations that align with Vision 2030.
How can Japan assist Bahrain in addressing environmental challenges?
Japan has been a steadfast partner in Bahrain’s sustainability efforts since 2006, beginning with the Carbon Dioxide Recovery (CDR) plant at GPIC. Our commitment has deepened with recent projects like carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiatives with Bapco Energies and Alba. In 2023, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines signed an MoU with Bapco Energies to develop carbon transport and sequestration solutions, while Alba partnered with Daiki Aluminium Industry Company to establish a sustainable aluminium dross processing unit.
Japan is also advancing water conservation technologies and promoting the use of hydrogen and ammonia as clean energy sources. These collaborations align with Bahrain’s upcoming National Energy Strategy, and I am confident that our joint efforts will help address pressing environmental challenges.
How does Japan contribute to Bahrain’s Vision 2030?
In addition to supporting sustainable development and economic diversification, Japan’s cultural exports, including anime, manga and video games, have become significant drivers of growth. Popular franchises like Pokémon and Studio Ghibli films resonate deeply with Bahrain’s younger population, creating new market opportunities.
The intellectual property sector, combined with advancements in AI and IT, offers Bahrain avenues to diversify its economy while fostering youth employment. Japanese startups such as Onigiri+, HARTi and SHIFT are already leveraging Bahrain’s robust regulatory framework and bilingual workforce to establish their presence.
Our collaborations with the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) and Tamkeen ensure innovation remains a cornerstone of Bahrain’s Vision 2030.
What is Japan’s role in promoting stability and security in the Gulf region?
Japan values peace and security in the Gulf, recognising its global significance. The war in Gaza and the ongoing crises in Lebanon, Syria and Yemen are deeply concerning. Japan supports a two-state solution and has provided $2.6 billion in aid to Palestinians since 1993.
We also contribute to maritime safety, marking 15 years of counter-piracy operations off Somalia’s coast and in the Gulf of Aden. To date, 74 Japanese vessels and 55 maritime patrol aircraft have been deployed, ensuring safe passage for nearly 4,000 merchant ships.
Our defence cooperation with Bahrain has expanded through high-ranking visits and joint exercises under the 2023 MoU, reinforcing our shared commitment to regional stability.
What cultural initiatives strengthen ties between Japan and Bahrain?
The Japanese Embassy actively promotes cultural exchange through diverse initiatives. In 2024, events like the ‘I Love Sushi’ exhibition, Anime and Tokusatsu film festivals, and Japanese festivals such as Hinamatsuri and Tanabata brought our cultures closer. The Japanese Society Festival, featuring Bon Odori and martial arts demonstrations, further enriched our bilateral ties.
Plans for 2025 include Ikebana workshops, a craft artisan exhibition and an expanded anime film festival in collaboration with Comic Con. Academic exchanges, including the establishment of Bahrain centre for Arabian Gulf Archaeology and Cultural Heritage, enhance mutual understanding.
Japanese cuisine’s growing popularity in Bahrain, reflected in Budoor Steele’s appointment as a Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador, is another testament to our cultural connection.
How can tourism between Japan and Bahrain grow?
Expo 2025 in Osaka is a pivotal opportunity to boost tourism. While Japan is increasingly popular among Bahrainis, Bahraini attractions remain under-promoted in Japan. Since 2019, the number of Bahraini visas to Japan has increased 2.4 times, reflecting a growing interest.
Japan prioritises attracting GCC tourists, with the Japan National Tourism Organisation opening a Dubai office to strengthen regional ties. Addressing gaps in cooperation between destination management companies will create seamless travel experiences.
Bahrain can also benefit from offering multi-country packages, attracting Japanese tourists to explore the region.
How can youth strengthen Japan-Bahrain relations?
Youth are essential to fostering stronger ties. The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship and programmes like the Ship for World Youth build lasting connections. Internships with companies such as Yokogawa and E-Growth provide practical insights.
The Osaka Expo 2025 will also feature Bahraini youth volunteering at the Bahrain Pavilion, offering them unique opportunities to engage with global audiences.
What business opportunities exist between Japan and Bahrain?
Key forums like the Bahrain-Japan Business & Friendship Society and Japan-Bahrain Economic Cooperation Association promote economic ties. The 2022 Agreement on the Promotion and Protection of Investments is a significant milestone.
Collaborations with the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and EDB continue to explore new investments, strengthening economic partnerships.
What has been your most memorable experience in Bahrain?
Bahrain’s warmth, cultural openness and emphasis on tolerance have left a lasting impression. Its rich history as a trading hub since the Dilmun era and its pearl industry heritage highlight the nation’s global significance.
Bahrain’s dedication to empowering women and youth, along with its commitment to peaceful coexistence, serves as a model for stability and progress.
How has Bahraini culture shaped you?
Adjusting to Bahrain has been seamless due to the warm welcome. Bahrain’s culinary diversity, especially its focus on seafood, feels familiar and enriching.
Learning about Bahrain’s historical crossroads of civilisations has deepened my understanding of its unique identity, blending tradition and modernity.
