ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT): President Asif Ali Zardari, Wednesday, met King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at Al-Qudaibiya Palace, Manama and held comprehensive discussions aimed at further strengthening the close and fraternal relationship between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Bahrain.The talks reflected a shared resolve to deepen cooperation and give practical momentum to bilateral engagement.
First Lady, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla and Agriculture Minister Balochistan, Mir Ali Hassan Zehri accompanied the president, President Secretariat Media Wing said in a press release.Upon arrival at the palace, President Zardari was accorded a guard of honour.King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa conferred upon President Zardari the Order of Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa First Class, highest Award of the Kingdom of Bahrain, in recognition of his services and contribution to strengthening Pakistan–Bahrain relations.The president also wrote his remarks in the visitors’ book at Al-Qudaibiya Palace.
The two leaders reviewed the overall state of Pakistan–Bahrain relations and expressed satisfaction over their positive trajectory.
President Zardari conveyed appreciation for the warmth and extraordinary hospitality extended to him and his delegation and acknowledged the King’s enduring goodwill towards Pakistan.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to broadening cooperation across political, economic, defence and cultural fields and reiterated the invitation for the King to undertake an official visit to Pakistan.
This was followed by an extended meeting, during which both sides discussed concrete ways to enhance trade and investment cooperation.
The president emphasised Pakistan’s desire to translate strong political relations into increased trade and deeper investment linkages.
He invited Bahraini investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s priority sectors, including agriculture and food security, IT and digital services, healthcare, tourism and infrastructure, and highlighted the facilitative role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council in supporting foreign investors.
President Zardari underlined that Pakistan views Bahrain as an important economic partner and expressed confidence that closer collaboration could unlock mutually beneficial opportunities.
He noted Pakistan’s economic potential, connectivity and skilled workforce and encouraged joint ventures that contribute to sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
The president also highlighted the long-standing defence and security cooperation between the two countries, describing it as a pillar of the bilateral relationship.
He noted the close institutional linkages between the armed forces of Pakistan and Bahrain and reaffirmed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthening this partnership.
