Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has set an ambitious vision for Pakistan-Bahrain trade, expressing confidence that bilateral commerce can rise from the current $550 million to $1 billion within the next three years. During his meeting with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa in Manama, PM Shehbaz underscored the potential of deepening economic, strategic, and cultural ties between the two nations.
A New Vision for Economic Partnership
The Prime Minister’s Office revealed that the push to expand Pakistan-Bahrain trade aligns with broader regional developments, particularly the Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement, which is at the finalisation stage. Recent facilitation in visa policies between Pakistan and Bahrain is expected to further accelerate business and workforce mobility.
PM Shehbaz invited Bahraini investors to explore Pakistan’s emerging sectors, including renewable energy, IT, food security, tourism, mines and minerals, construction, and healthcare. He highlighted these as areas ripe for joint ventures, especially with Pakistan’s renewed focus on economic stability and regional connectivity.
One major proposal discussed was enhancing port-to-port connectivity between Karachi and Gwadar ports with Bahrain’s Khalifa Bin Salman Port. This step, if implemented, could significantly improve logistical and commercial routes, making Pakistan-Bahrain trade more efficient and impactful.
Honouring Diplomatic Achievements
PM Shehbaz also congratulated Bahrain for securing a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for the 2026–2027 term. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthened coordination during Bahrain’s tenure, noting that both countries have historically maintained strong diplomatic ties.
The prime minister praised Bahrain for supporting more than 150,000 Pakistani nationals living and working in the kingdom. He expressed Pakistan’s readiness to provide even more skilled manpower in various fields, from technical expertise to healthcare professionals.
Strengthening Education and Skilled Workforce Development
A key element of the discussions involved collaboration in higher education, digital governance, and advanced skill development. PM Shehbaz highlighted the progress already made through the King Hamad University initiative and called for more platforms that can equip Pakistani youth with global-standard technical abilities.
He also thanked Bahraini authorities for facilitating the release and repatriation of Pakistani citizens, acknowledging it as a reflection of Bahrain’s goodwill and longstanding friendship.
Expanding Defence and Security Cooperation
Defence and security collaboration formed a significant part of the dialogue. Both countries agreed to expand cooperation in cybersecurity, defence production, information sharing, and professional training. With evolving global security challenges, both sides emphasized the importance of stronger institutional partnerships.
These commitments mark another important milestone in enhancing Pakistan-Bahrain trade and broader bilateral relations, as security stability contributes directly to economic confidence.
Regional Concerns: A Shared Voice for Peace
The leaders also spoke on developments in Gaza. PM Shehbaz and the Bahraini crown prince agreed that peace for the people of Gaza is long overdue. They stressed the need for humanitarian support and a lasting resolution to years of suffering. Their shared stance highlights a mutual commitment to regional peace and justice.
A Prestigious Honour for Pakistan’s Leader
During the visit, Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa awarded PM Shehbaz Sharif the prestigious Order of Bahrain (First Class)—the highest honour Bahrain bestows on heads of state and government. The king expressed admiration for Pakistan’s historical contributions, noting that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah once represented Bahrain at a legal forum.
Upon his arrival at the Al-Qudaibiya Palace, PM Shehbaz received a ceremonial guard of honour, underscoring the importance Bahrain places on its relationship with Pakistan.
A Delegation Focused on Partnership
The prime minister was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and other senior officials. Their presence signaled Pakistan’s comprehensive approach to boosting Pakistan-Bahrain trade and cooperation across multiple sectors.
A Promising Future for Bilateral Relations
The meeting between PM Shehbaz Sharif and Bahrain’s leadership concluded with a strong sense of optimism. Both sides expressed confidence that their discussions would translate into concrete actions in the coming months. Strengthened ties in trade, security, education, manpower, and connectivity are expected to usher in a new era for Pakistan-Bahrain trade and long-term strategic partnership.
