Manama: An Austrian business delegation visited Bahrain to learn about investment opportunities the kingdom has to offer.
Led by Gerd Bommer, commercial counsellor in the Austrian Embassy in Doha, the delegation consists of representatives from 12 Austrian companies representing sectors such as financial services, leisure, consultancy, information and communications technology, electronics and manufacturing.
The Economic Development Board (EDB) hosted the delegation as part of efforts to attract investments to the kingdom and promote its business environment to potential investors.
Officials from the EDB presented the various opportunities Bahrain provides Austrian investors and its open and free economy, including its competitive cost of doing business and skilled national workforce that strengthen the kingdom’s various sectors.
The delegation also had a chance to network with Bahraini counterparts with the EDB, organising a total of 15 business-to-business meetings for the delegation with Bahraini companies to discuss potential co-operation and joint ventures.
“We have noticed huge interest among business delegations the EDB meets in Bahrain’s competitive business environment and the openness and strategic location it provides companies looking to expand to the Gulf region,” said EDB chief executive Khalid Al Rumaihi.
“Such advantages are attracting international investors to strengthen trade co-operation with Bahraini companies and focus on developing trade and investment ties between the two sides which contribute to creating more jobs for Bahrainis in line with EDB’s development plans.”
The role of EDB’s international office in Germany was instrumental in organising the delegation’s visit to the kingdom.
The office, established in 2011, functions with EDB’s goals as a guide map with the sole purpose of attracting investments to the kingdom from countries such as Switzerland, Austria, Holland and Belgium in addition to Germany.
It also works to promote Bahrain’s business environment and investment opportunities through various means including forums and B2B meetings.