PM Shehbaz Sets $1bn Pakistan–Bahrain Trade Target, Seeks Stronger Economic Ties
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has projected a sharp rise in Pakistan–Bahrain trade, expressing confidence that bilateral commerce can reach $1 billion within the next three years. The premier outlined the target during his meeting with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, in Manama on Wednesday.
Trade Expansion and New Connectivity Plans
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif said the next phase of Gulf cooperation will be driven by the Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement, which is nearing completion, along with recently relaxed visa procedures for Pakistani nationals.
The prime minister invited Bahraini investors to explore Pakistan’s potential in food security, IT, construction, minerals, healthcare, renewable energy and tourism. He also proposed establishing direct port-to-port connectivity between Karachi and Gwadar with Bahrain’s Khalifa Bin Salman Port to streamline logistics and bolster trade flows.
Support for Pakistani Community and New Cooperation in Education
Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged Bahrain’s support for the more than 150,000 Pakistanis living in the kingdom and said Pakistan stands ready to provide additional skilled workers. He welcomed enhanced cooperation in higher education, technical training and digital governance, particularly through ongoing initiatives linked to King Hamad University.
The prime minister also thanked Bahraini authorities for facilitating the release and repatriation of Pakistani citizens detained in the country.
Defence, Security and Regional Developments Discussed
Both sides agreed to deepen collaboration in defence training, cybersecurity, information sharing and defence production. Regional issues, including the situation in Gaza, were also reviewed, with both leaders emphasizing the urgent need for lasting peace and relief for Palestinians who have endured decades of hardship.
Bahrain Honours PM Shehbaz with Highest National Award
In a separate engagement, Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa conferred the Order of Bahrain (First Class) on Shehbaz Sharif— the highest honour the kingdom awards to heads of state. The king recalled historical ties, noting that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah once represented Bahrain at a legal forum.
The prime minister was received with a formal guard of honour at Al-Qudaibiya Palace upon arrival. He is currently on a two-day official visit accompanied by a high-level delegation including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and other senior officials.
The leadership of both countries expressed confidence that the latest engagements will translate into concrete outcomes and elevate cooperation across economic, security and people-to-people domains.
