Bahrain’s King Hamad has ordered the appointment of a non-resident ambassador to Cyprus - to explore new prospects of co-operation and develop cultural, tourism, economic and trade relations.

This came as he held talks with Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades in the presence of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

An official welcoming ceremony was held for President Anastasiades who then inspected a guard of honour.

During the official talks, the two sides discussed solid co-operation and friendly relations, in addition to ways of broadening economic, trade and investment ties.

The King stressed Bahrain's keenness to bolster bilateral relations in all fields.

He also underlined the importance of expanding business ties among private sector enterprises of the two countries for enhancing bilateral relations.

His Majesty highlighted confronting terrorism and extremism which don't reflect the real image of tolerant religions.

The Cypriot President expressed delight in visiting Bahrain and meeting the King, commending the warm welcome and the King's keenness in developing bilateral relations.

President Anastasiades emphasised his country's willingness to boost co-operation at all levels for the benefit of both countries and their peoples.

He hailed the achievements and development witness by Bahrain in various areas, wishing the people of Bahrain further progress and prosperity under the leadership of the King.

The leaders then witnessed the signing of a series of agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoU) between Bahrain and Cyprus.

The pacts signed included an agreement on avoidance of double taxation; an agreement on the fight against terrorism, organised crime, trafficking in narcotics, illegal immigration and other criminal offences; an agreement on air services; an MoU on streamlining air services; and an MoU on health co-operation. - TradeArabia News Service