The strategic significance of the Indian diaspora in enhancing trade, investment, and cultural ties between GCC and India was highlighted during a key conference in Kochi, India, last week.

 

Speaking at the Kochi Dialogue 2025, a premier Track 1.5 diplomacy conference, Zahraa Taher, Managing Director of FinMark Communications and Secretary General of the Bahrain-India Society, stressed the importance of the Indian diaspora in Bahrain’s economy, noting their contributions across finance, trade, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. 

 

She called for stronger business networks and policy frameworks to ensure Bahrain remains a key hub for Indian businesses looking to expand in the GCC.

 

Kochi Dialogue 2025 brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and policy experts from India and the GCC nations. Organized by the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, the dialogue focused on strengthening India-GCC relations under the theme “India’s Look West Policy in Action: People, Prosperity and Progress.”  

 

Jassem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, gave a special address in the forum highlighting the India-GCC cooperation as a catalyst of global peace, innovation and economic growth.

 

During her participation in the session titled “India & the GCC: Leveraging the Diaspora Connect”, Taher emphasised several key areas where Bahrain and India can strengthen their collaboration. She highlighted the importance of encouraging Indian investment in Bahrain’s finance, technology, and industrial sectors, enhancing bilateral trade relations through stronger business networks, and positioning Bahrain as a strategic entry point for Indian businesses in the GCC.

 

The session, moderated by Ambassador Venu Rajamony, included senior figures from the Indian and GCC business and policy sectors, including Dr Suresh Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India; Thaha Muhammed Abdul Kareem, President of IBPC Qatar; Ajith Kolassery, CEO, NoRKA Roots; James Mathew, CEO & Managing Partner of UHY James; and Shihab Kottukad, a distinguished Indian social worker.

 

Commenting on her participation, Taher stated: “Bahrain has long been a thriving centre for the Indian diaspora, playing a pivotal role in business, trade, and cultural exchange. Strengthening these connections through structured policies and initiatives can unlock new economic opportunities for both regions. It is an honour to contribute to this distinguished forum, which highlights the strategic importance of collaboration between India and the GCC region. Through dialogues like these, we can explore new opportunities to advance economic and cultural partnerships while fostering mutual growth and prosperity.”

 

The Kochi Dialogue 2025 served as a vital platform for discussions on policy, business networking, and international cooperation, covering key sectors such as trade, investment, education, healthcare, energy, and maritime security. - TradeArabia News Service