Bahrain Confers Top Honour
Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has awarded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif the Order of Bahrain – First Class, the kingdom’s highest civilian decoration. The award, which is normally reserved for global leaders and heads of state, was presented during Sharif’s official visit to Manama.
Moreover, Bahraini officials explained that the honour reflects the strength of bilateral ties that have grown over several decades. They added that the award symbolises mutual trust and strategic alignment between the two countries.
Leaders Review Bilateral Relationship
During the meeting, the two leaders held extensive discussions on the historic partnership between Pakistan and Bahrain. They examined cooperation in political, economic, defence and cultural sectors.
Furthermore, both sides acknowledged the key role of Pakistan’s expatriate community in Bahrain. The community, which exceeds 100,000 people, contributes significantly to essential sectors such as construction, healthcare and security.
Consequently, labour mobility and worker welfare became part of the broader dialogue.
Economic and Investment Cooperation
The talks also focused heavily on economic and investment opportunities. Sharif noted that annual bilateral trade—currently estimated at $300–400 million—remains far below potential.
Therefore, he urged the Bahraini business community to explore Pakistan’s fast-growing markets. In addition, he outlined several priority investment areas, including food security, agriculture, information technology, digital services, mining, tourism, hospitality, healthcare and pharmaceuticals.
He stressed that Pakistan is implementing reforms to simplify regulations and improve the ease of doing business. As a result, he said, foreign investors could expect more predictable processes and better institutional support.
Defence and Security Collaboration
Defence cooperation also featured prominently in the talks. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding military exchanges, training programmes and joint exercises.
Additionally, they agreed that closer defence coordination could strengthen regional stability. They also emphasized that evolving security challenges require greater collaboration and shared planning.
Consequently, both sides signalled their intention to develop deeper defence frameworks in the coming months.
Education and Cultural Exchanges
Education and cultural ties remained another important aspect of the discussion. Sharif thanked Bahrain for its support in academic and training initiatives and appreciated the role of King Hamad University, which hosts Pakistani students.
Moreover, he referred to a historic link connecting both nations: Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, practised law in Bahrain during his early career.
According to Sharif, this early connection highlights how deep and enduring the relationship has been.
Discussion on Regional Issues and Gaza
The leaders also reviewed several regional developments. In particular, they discussed the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Additionally, both leaders highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian access and for measures that protect civilians. They also stressed that a diplomatic solution remains the only sustainable path toward peace.
Therefore, they reaffirmed their support for negotiated, peaceful outcomes in regional conflicts.
Sharif Calls the Visit Highly Productive
Following the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif wrote on X that the visit was highly productive and meaningful.
He added that receiving Bahrain’s highest honour was a great privilege.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, defence and culture.
Subsequently, he expressed optimism that the agreements reached during the visit would soon translate into practical outcomes.
Strategic Importance of the Visit
The visit holds wider strategic relevance. Pakistan continues to strengthen its engagement with Gulf partners, and Bahrain plays an important role in regional finance and connectivity.
Moreover, stronger cooperation with Bahrain could help Pakistan diversify its economic partnerships and attract new investment streams.
Ultimately, the commitments announced during the visit signal deeper alignment between South Asia and the Gulf region, especially in trade, security and development.
