MANAMA, BAHRAIN — New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy arrived in Manama on Monday, marking the first official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain by a sitting New Jersey governor. Murphy is continuing his multi-nation Middle East tour aimed at bolstering economic ties and highlighting New Jersey’s role in the global innovation economy.
“I haven’t been here in over 20 years. First time as governor and first sitting governor of the great state of New Jersey to visit the kingdom ever,” Murphy said during a joint appearance with U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain Steven Bondy, a fellow New Jersey native. The governor is leading a 42-member delegation made up of government officials, business leaders, and academic representatives.
Key Points
- New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is the first sitting governor from the state to visit Bahrain.
- The governor is leading a 42-member delegation to discuss economic investment and innovation.
- U.S. Ambassador Steven Bondy, also from New Jersey, welcomed Murphy and emphasized historical state ties.
Strengthening long-standing ties and future innovation
Ambassador Bondy highlighted the deep-rooted connection between New Jersey and Bahrain, referencing 19th-century missionaries from a seminary in New Brunswick who helped establish institutions in the Gulf nation that still operate today. “There is a very strong relationship between Bahrain and the state of New Jersey,” Bondy said.
Murphy echoed that sentiment, noting Bahrain’s significance not just to New Jersey but to the United States at large. “Not only an existentially important partner for New Jersey, but an extraordinary ally for the United States of America,” the governor said.
The visit centers on advancing shared economic interests, particularly in high-growth sectors such as generative artificial intelligence. Murphy said these emerging fields represent mutual priorities for both New Jersey and Bahrain, calling the collaboration “a big deal for the kingdom, a big deal for Jersey.”
Murphy’s delegation includes representatives from higher education, commerce, and the public sector. The trip is part of the governor’s broader strategy to promote New Jersey as a hub for global innovation and foreign investment.
Focus on business development and education
During the meetings, both sides emphasized the importance of expanding trade and investment frameworks. Murphy and Bondy expressed optimism about future joint ventures, educational exchanges, and research partnerships between New Jersey institutions and Bahraini counterparts.
The embassy in Manama also celebrated the visit, stating in a social media post: “Great energy in Manama today!” The tweet praised the governor’s arrival and highlighted the discussion on “historic U.S.-Bahrain ties, boosting economic investment, and forging new partnerships.”
Murphy, who kicked off his tour earlier this week, has made international engagement a cornerstone of his administration’s economic development agenda. His itinerary in Bahrain includes official meetings, site visits, and business roundtables aimed at fostering strategic connections.
As the Middle East tour continues, Murphy plans to spotlight New Jersey’s growing influence in sectors like clean energy, biotech, and advanced manufacturing.
Governor’s trip marks a milestone in NJ’s international outreach
Murphy’s visit underscores a shift toward deeper state-level diplomacy abroad, as local leaders seek out direct ties with foreign markets. With New Jersey’s diverse economic portfolio and strategic location, the governor is leveraging these assets to court global investors and innovators alike.
“We are thrilled, beyond thrilled to be here,” Murphy said. “Really excited to get out there and get at it today.”
Murphy’s next stops have not yet been officially confirmed but are expected to include other regional partners aligned with the state’s economic vision.
Murphy’s Bahrain stop sets historic precedent as Jersey eyes global economic growth.