Manama, July 26 (SANA)Bahraini Foreign MinisterAbdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayaniand his Ukrainian counterpart,Andrii Sybiha, stressed the importance of ensuring freedom ofnavigationand safeguarding international waterways during a telephone conversation on Sunday.

According to the Bahrain News Agency (BNA), the two ministers emphasized the need to protect civilian vessels and preserve securemaritime routes,highlighting their importance in supporting global food security, energy supplies, and international trade.

The ministers also reviewed developments in the Middle East and Europe, reaffirming their support for efforts aimed at reducing tensions and reaching political settlements that contribute to regional and international peace and security.

During the call, Sybiha expressed Ukraine’s solidarity with the Kingdom of Bahrain following the recent attacks targeting the country.

Since the outbreak of the conflict in theMiddle Easton February 28, Ukrainian PresidentVolodymyr Zelenskyyhas visited a number of Gulf countries. Ukraine has subsequently concluded long-term defense cooperation agreements with several Gulf states, including Bahrain. The agreements, which extend for 10 years, include cooperation on joint military production projects.