President Asif Ali Zardari has advanced Pakistan’s dual commitment to deepening security collaboration and expanding economic ties with Bahrain during high-level engagements in Manama, focusing on coordinated efforts against terrorism and narcotics alongside a push for new investment partnerships.
According to a report by MOIB on Thursday, in a separate meeting with Bahrain’s Interior Minister, Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, discussions centred on bolstering bilateral cooperation in security, counter-narcotics measures, and counter-terrorism initiatives.
Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to deepening collaboration on shared security priorities, agreeing to pursue coordinated efforts against threats posed by organised crime, illicit drugs, and terrorism.
During the discussion, the Bahraini interior minister recognised the role of his Pakistani counterpart, Mohsin Naqvi, in strengthening cooperation. President Zardari responded warmly, referring to Minister Naqvi as being like a second son to him after his own son, Bilawal.
Addressing a reception at the headquarters of the Economic Development Board of Bahrain, President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan”s commitment to protecting investment and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships. He thanked the Bahraini leadership for their role in advancing bilateral economic relations.
The President highlighted Pakistan”s ongoing economic reforms, stating the country is pursuing stability, digital modernisation, and investment-led growth. He pointed to the Special Investment Facilitation Council as a streamlined platform to assist investors.
Priority sectors for investment were identified as agriculture, information technology, energy, minerals, logistics, and tourism.
President Zardari specified agriculture and food security, information technology, digital services, renewable energy, and logistics as particularly promising areas for collaboration between Pakistan and Bahrain.
He also emphasised Pakistan”s strategic geographic connectivity, which links South Asia, Central Asia, China, and the Middle East, noting that this complements Bahrain”s financial expertise and strong regulatory framework.
While outlining economic opportunities, the President also referred to regional security challenges and their impact on development. He reaffirmed Pakistan”s resolve to counter extremism, strengthen internal security, and pursue peaceful relations with its neighbours while safeguarding national interests.
The engagement reflects the enduring partnership between the two nations and underscores a shared resolve to enhance regional security through practical cooperation.