MANAMA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening its relationship with the Kingdom of Bahrain, a partnership built on mutual respect and shared religious and cultural values.
During his two-day official visit, the prime minister met King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in Manama, where both leaders reiterated their desire to enhance the historically strong and friendly ties between Pakistan and Bahrain. Discussions focused on expanding economic cooperation, trade, investment, and broader regional developments.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s interest in boosting bilateral trade and said that the upcoming Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement, now in its final stages, would help accelerate economic engagement. He invited Bahraini investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan through the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), particularly in food security, IT, construction, mining, tourism, and healthcare.
The prime minister thanked the Bahraini leadership for supporting more than 150,000 Pakistanis living in Bahrain and expressed gratitude for the clemency shown toward Pakistani prisoners.
Both countries reaffirmed the importance of their longstanding defence partnership and agreed to enhance collaboration in training, logistics, manpower, and defence production. The situation in Gaza also came under discussion, with both sides stressing the urgent need for lasting peace and stability for the people of Palestine.
Prime Minister Shehbaz congratulated Bahrain on winning a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2026–27 term and assured close cooperation at the international level. The two sides recognized the potential to elevate bilateral trade—currently above $550 million—to the $1 billion mark.
Meeting with the Crown Prince
The prime minister also met Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, with the meeting concluding on a positive note and with confidence that it would yield concrete outcomes and further strengthen Pakistan–Bahrain relations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz was warmly received upon arrival at Manama Airport. His delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and senior officials.
According to PTV, the visit reflects the long-standing cordial ties between the two nations and aims to advance a results-oriented and strategic partnership. Last month, Pakistan and Bahrain agreed to enhance cooperation in multiple sectors during the inaugural session of their Parliamentary Friendship Group.
