ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has expressed confidence that the upcoming Pakistan-GCC Free Trade Agreement, set to be signed soon, will significantly boost trade between Pakistan and GCC-member states, particularly Bahrain.
Speaking to the business community in Manama, he reaffirmed his government’s commitment to encouraging joint ventures, facilitating investment initiatives, and fostering a mutually beneficial path toward economic progress.
He called on Bahrain’s leadership and business sector to collaborate closely with Pakistan to energize its economy, with a focus on industries such as agriculture, information technology, and fintech.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Bahrain, emphasizing that their decades-long relationship is built on common cultural and religious values, mutual respect, and trust. He stressed the need to evolve this partnership into more dynamic economic cooperation.
The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to strengthen bilateral relations with Bahrain across key sectors, including agriculture, IT, artificial intelligence, and fintech.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to Bahrain’s leadership—including the King, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Crown Prince, and Foreign Minister—for their continued support and noted that his discussions with them had been highly fruitful.
Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the vibrant Pakistani community in Bahrain for their dedication and hard work in contributing to the prosperity of both nations. He acknowledged the diaspora’s commendable efforts in remitting $484 million during the last financial year, which he described as a significant achievement.
In addition, he expressed sincere gratitude to King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa and the Bahraini authorities for their warm hospitality during his two-day visit.
Earlier in the event, Bahrain’s Minister for Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his delegation. The Minister commended the Pakistani diaspora and financial institutions for their role in advancing Bahrain’s development.
He underscored the region’s ongoing generational transformation towards becoming a hub of innovation, sustainability, and technology. Highlighting Bahrain’s leadership in emerging technologies, the Minister extended an invitation to Pakistani businesses to explore significant investment opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, metals, automotive components, electronics, and other advanced sectors.
