Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing a business community event in Bahrain, vowed to give a new dimension to Pakistan–Bahrain relations, highlighting shared history, strategic partnership, and vast opportunities for economic collaboration.
The event featured opening remarks by Bahrain’s Finance Minister Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, who praised the historic bond between the two nations. He said Pakistan and Bahrain share ties “intertwined with history,” and the presence of the Pakistani Prime Minister marks a renewed chapter in bilateral relations.
Sheikh Salman noted that generations of Pakistanis have played a vital role in Bahrain’s development, adding that many now consider the kingdom their second home.
Minister highlights deep-rooted partnership
Sheikh Salman emphasized that both countries continue to progress through the contributions of people whose services are invaluable to Pakistan and Bahrain. He highlighted the role of Pakistani banks — National Bank of Pakistan, HBL, and UBL — which have been pillars of Bahrain’s financial sector for nearly 50 years.
The minister underscored that the broader Gulf Cooperation Council is undergoing a major transformation, becoming a hub of innovation, sustainability, and technological excellence — an evolution Bahrain is proud to help lead.
He also pointed to Bahrain’s modern financial system, skilled workforce, and emerging fintech sector as key assets in future cooperation.
PM Shehbaz expresses gratitude, outlines vision
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif began his address by expressing heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception, saying it felt “like we have come home.”
He said the historic welcome would remain in Pakistan’s collective memory, adding that the visit reflects brotherly affection, respect, and trust between the two nations.
Sharif reaffirmed that Pakistan and Bahrain enjoy decades-long relations rooted in cultural and religious affinity, mutual respect, and strong strategic cooperation.
Strengthening economic cooperation core purpose of visit
The premier said his visit aims to further enhance bilateral relations, particularly in agriculture, IT, artificial intelligence, fintech, minerals, energy, tourism, and other emerging sectors. He described Pakistan’s long-standing ties with Bahrain as “two bodies, one soul and one heart,” emphasizing that the time has come to convert this emotional bond into robust economic collaboration.
Sharif thanked Bahrain’s leadership for its unwavering cooperation with Pakistan and praised the warm, purposeful atmosphere of bilateral talks held during the visit.
Pakistan’s youth, economic potential
Calling Pakistan’s youth a “challenge, blessing, and opportunity,” the PM noted that 60% of the population is between 15 and 30 years old. He said the government is equipping young people with IT training, technical skills, and modern capabilities to drive future growth.
Sharif invited Bahraini businesses to join hands with Pakistan in new ventures, saying both countries can accomplish “great achievements together.”
Pakistanis in Bahrain praised
PM Shehbaz acknowledged that Pakistanis living in Bahrain are rendering excellent services across various sectors. He cited the $484 million in remittances sent to Pakistan from Bahrain in the last fiscal year as a testament to the community’s commitment and contribution.
Sharif thanked Bahrain’s top leadership for supporting Pakistani expatriates and urged the community to continue serving as ambassadors of goodwill.
Highlighting Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms and shift toward private-sector-led development, Shehbaz said new doors have opened for investment in agriculture, IT, minerals, energy, and tourism. He extended a formal invitation to Bahraini investors to visit Pakistan, partner in joint ventures, and help shape long-term economic cooperation.
Sharif also noted that the Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement is in its final stages and will significantly elevate trade relations.
“We are ready to open new, lasting, and meaningful economic avenues with the Bahraini business community,” he said, promising full facilitation for investment and business operations.
Vision for collective progress
Closing his address, the PM quoted: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
He urged Bahraini and Pakistani investors to work together, forge new partnerships, and turn today’s collaboration into a foundation for future prosperity.
