Pakistan vows to take trade, economic ties with Bahrain to 'new heights'

Pakistan vowed on Thursday to boost trade and economic ties with Bahrain to unprecedented levels following the third session of their Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) in Islamabad. Bahrain's Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, who visited Pakistan for two days, co-chaired the JMC along with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

Dar expressed gratitude to Al Zayani and his delegation for their valuable contributions during the session. He emphasized Pakistan's strong and forward-looking friendship with Bahrain, stating that both nations share long-standing fraternal ties and cooperate on international forums. The Deputy Prime Minister pledged Pakistan's commitment to elevating bilateral trade and economic relations to new heights, aiming for a $1 billion target, with the first year already completed.

He also hinted at a potential free trade agreement (FTA) between the GCC and Pakistan, which could significantly increase imports and exports. Dar requested Bahrain to recognize Pakistani degrees and professional qualifications and facilitate greater mobility of skilled labor. The two foreign ministers also discussed regional and international developments, underscoring dialogue and diplomacy as the most viable means of addressing challenges and resolving disputes.