MANAMA (Behrain): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s two-day visit to Bahrain resulted in a renewed pledge by both countries to widen collaboration in defence and economic affairs, following discussions with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
The meeting underscored the strong foundation of Pakistan–Bahrain relations, with both leaders expressing their intent to further fortify ties rooted in shared cultural and religious connections.
As part of the diplomatic engagement, King Hamad conferred the Order of Bahrain upon Prime Minister Shehbaz. The Bahraini ruler also reflected on historical ties, noting that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah—Pakistan’s founding father—had once served as a legal consultant to Bahrain, according to archival records.
Prime Minister Shehbaz reciprocated with gratitude, thanking the king for the honour and hospitality. The two sides acknowledged the positive trajectory of their relationship and agreed to broaden their cooperation beyond politics, into economic, defence, and cultural sectors.
Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and praised Bahrain’s backing in establishing the King Hamad University in Islamabad. He emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to boost trade and said the country was prepared to pursue economic advancement under the GCC free trade framework. He further encouraged Bahraini businesses to consider new investment prospects in Pakistan.
The prime minister also expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s welcoming attitude toward the more than 150,000 Pakistanis living and working in the kingdom and thanked King Hamad for easing the repatriation of Pakistani detainees.
Both leaders reiterated the importance of their longstanding defence cooperation and agreed to expand joint work in defence production, capacity building, manpower support, and logistical training. They also exchanged views on the evolving situation in Gaza and stressed the importance of regional peace and stability.
The discussions concluded with optimism, as both sides voiced confidence that the visit would help cement the enduring friendship and collaborative spirit between Pakistan and Bahrain.
Read more: https://nayakashmir.com/trump-pushes-workforce-reduction/
