NK MONITORING DESK
MANAMA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking before Bahraini business leaders, called for ushering in a new phase of economic cooperation between Pakistan and Bahrain, stressing their historic ties, mutual respect, and untapped investment potential.
The gathering began with remarks from Bahrain’s Finance Minister Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, who described the Pakistan–Bahrain relationship as deeply rooted in shared history. He said the prime minister’s presence symbolized the beginning of a renewed era of partnership.
Sheikh Salman highlighted the long-standing contributions of Pakistani professionals in Bahrain, saying that many now regard the kingdom as their second homeland. He also praised Pakistani banking institutions — including NBP, HBL, and UBL — noting that they have been crucial components of Bahrain’s financial framework for nearly half a century.
The minister further noted that Bahrain is positioned at the forefront of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s transformation — a shift toward innovation, sustainability, and advanced technology. He pointed to the country’s evolving fintech ecosystem, strong financial regulatory environment, and specialized workforce as strengths in future bilateral cooperation.
Taking the stage, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked Bahraini leaders for what he called an exceptionally warm reception, saying that his delegation “felt as though we were among family.” He emphasized that the welcome would be remembered in Pakistan as a symbol of brotherly closeness and enduring trust.
Sharif reiterated that relations between the two countries are strengthened by cultural affinity, religious bonds, and decades of strategic partnership.
The prime minister said the core purpose of his visit was to deepen collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, minerals, energy, tourism, IT, artificial intelligence, fintech, and other emerging fields. He described Pakistan and Bahrain as “one heart and one soul,” saying it was time to translate shared sentiment into meaningful economic action.
Sharif praised the positive tone of recent bilateral meetings, expressing appreciation for Bahrain’s consistent support for Pakistan.
He pointed out that Pakistan’s youth — 60% of whom are aged 15 to 30 — represent not just a demographic reality but a strategic resource. He said the government is actively developing digital and technical training programs to harness this potential.
The premier extended an invitation to Bahraini investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan, saying that joint ventures could lead to “remarkable outcomes.”
Sharif acknowledged the service of the Pakistani community living in Bahrain and noted that $484 million was sent to Pakistan in remittances from the kingdom in the past fiscal year. He thanked Bahraini authorities for facilitating expatriate Pakistanis and urged the diaspora to continue representing Pakistan with dignity and good spirit.
Highlighting ongoing economic reforms at home, Shehbaz said Pakistan is moving toward private-sector-led growth and that new investment avenues are opening rapidly. He encouraged Bahraini delegations to visit Pakistan and engage in long-term economic collaboration.
He also emphasized that the Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement is nearing completion and will significantly boost regional trade.
“We stand ready to unlock sustainable and mutually beneficial economic opportunities with our Bahraini partners,” Sharif stated, assuring comprehensive support for incoming investment.
He concluded with a message of collective advancement, saying: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” He urged both nations to deepen cooperation and transform today’s engagements into enduring pathways for shared prosperity.
Read more: https://nayakashmir.com/shehbaz-bahrain-king-strengthen-economic-and-defence-cooperation-during-official-visit/
