Bahrain and France have signed an MoU to develop expertise for Bahrain’s civilian nuclear programme through specialised training, expanding cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy and strengthening wider strategic ties.
Bahrain and France have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, focusing on developing the skills and technical expertise required for Bahrain’s civilian nuclear programme. The agreement marks a new area of collaboration between the two countries as they seek to deepen their strategic partnership in energy, technology and economic development.
The MoU was signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Manama. Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Macron witnessed the signing by representatives of Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
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According to Bahrain’s state news agency, the agreement aims to build and maintain the expertise needed for a civilian nuclear programme through specialised training initiatives. The focus on human capital development is intended to help Bahrain develop the technical capabilities necessary to explore peaceful nuclear applications.
The agreement does not, by itself, announce the construction of a nuclear power plant or establish a timeline for nuclear energy generation. Instead, it provides a framework for cooperation in developing the knowledge and capabilities required for civilian nuclear activities.
During their meeting, King Hamad and Macron also discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in investment, economic development, defence, sustainable development and advanced technologies. Both leaders exchanged views on regional and international developments, including the situation in the Middle East.
King Hamad highlighted the defence cooperation agreement signed during his visit to France in February 2026, describing it as a foundation for broader collaboration in security, energy and technology. Macron also emphasised the importance of strengthening defence capabilities, military-industrial cooperation and energy ties.
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The agreement reflects the wider effort by Bahrain and France to expand their relationship beyond traditional diplomatic and commercial engagement. For Bahrain, developing technical expertise could support future assessments of civilian nuclear applications, while France brings experience in nuclear technology and training.
Further progress will depend on the implementation of specialised training programmes and the development of technical cooperation between the two governments.