Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari met with Bahrain’s General Sheikh Rashid Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa at Aiwan-e-Sadr today, underscoring the strong historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Bahrain and emphasizing the importance of collaboration in key areas.

During the meeting, President Zardari highlighted the longstanding connections between the two nations, rooted in shared history and faith, and the significant role of the Pakistani community in Bahrain. He acknowledged the existing cooperation, including the visa abolition agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders, and expressed a desire to enhance collaboration in security, immigration, counterterrorism, and narcotics control.

Over 120,000 Pakistanis reside in Bahrain, contributing to the prosperity of both countries. The President emphasized the need for modernized visa systems and digital solutions to support Pakistani professionals and workers in Bahrain.

President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Bahrain and invited Bahraini officials to Islamabad for further discussions and cooperation.

General Sheikh Rashid Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa conveyed greetings from Bahrain’s leadership and expressed Bahrain’s commitment to strengthening ties with Pakistan. He appreciated the contributions of the Pakistani community to Bahrain’s development and expressed a desire to expand cooperation, particularly in security, counterterrorism, and capacity building.

The Bahraini delegation included prominent officials, such as Mr. Mohamed Ebrahim Mohamed Abdulqader, Bahrain’s Ambassador to Pakistan, and Major General Hamad bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Deputy Chief of Public Security. Pakistani officials, including Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control, were also present at the meeting.