Manama: President Asif Ali Zardari met King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain in Manama. Both leaders agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bahrain.
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to giving a new direction to the brotherly ties between the two countries. On arrival at Qasr Al Qudaibiya, the President was presented with a guard of honour.
President Asif Ali Zardari was awarded Bahrain’s highest civilian award, the Order of Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (First Class). The award was given in recognition of his valuable services and efforts to promote bilateral relations between the two brotherly nations.
The President and King Hamad held a one-on-one meeting and expressed satisfaction over the positive direction of bilateral ties. Detailed discussions were held on increasing cooperation in trade and investment.
President Zardari invited Bahraini investors to invest in Pakistan and highlighted opportunities in agriculture, IT, health, tourism, and infrastructure. Both leaders agreed that cooperation in defence and security is an important pillar of Pakistan–Bahrain relations.
The meeting also included an exchange of views on regional and global developments, with emphasis on unity and restraint. President Zardari said the Pakistani community living in Bahrain serves as a strong bridge between the two countries.
He thanked the Bahraini leadership for providing facilities to around 116,000 Pakistanis residing in Bahrain. King Hamad University in Islamabad was described as a symbol of Pakistan–Bahrain friendship.
Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination at international forums, including the United Nations. King Hamad said President Zardari’s visit is an important milestone in bilateral relations and praised the role of the Pakistani community in Bahrain.
A luncheon was hosted in honour of President Asif Ali Zardari and his delegation.
