ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stated that the upcoming Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to significantly enhance trade and economic ties between Pakistan and Gulf Cooperation Council member states, with a particular focus on Bahrain. Speaking to the business community in Manama, the Prime Minister emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to supporting joint ventures, facilitating investment plans, and promoting mutually beneficial partnerships.
Shehbaz Sharif encouraged Bahrain’s leadership and private sector to collaborate closely with Pakistan to energize key sectors such as industry, agriculture, information technology, and fintech. He highlighted that both nations share a deep-rooted bond based on culture, faith, mutual respect, and trust, describing Pakistan and Bahrain as brotherly countries with decades of strategic cooperation.
“The Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement will provide a solid framework to expand economic collaboration and create opportunities for investors in both countries,” the Prime Minister said. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including agriculture, IT, artificial intelligence, and fintech.
During his visit, Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to Bahrain’s leadership, including King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Crown Prince, and Foreign Minister, for their support and hospitality. He described his meetings as highly productive, emphasizing that these discussions would pave the way for stronger economic and trade relations.
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the Pakistani community in Bahrain for their resilience, hard work, and significant contributions. He noted that Pakistani expatriates in Bahrain sent home remittances totaling 484 million dollars in the last financial year, highlighting the crucial role they play in strengthening Pakistan’s economy.
Shehbaz Sharif’s official two-day visit to Bahrain underscored Pakistan’s commitment to deepening strategic, economic, and cultural ties with the Gulf nation. He concluded by reiterating Pakistan’s dedication to creating a more robust trade environment, expanding joint ventures, and fostering sustainable investment opportunities that benefit both countries.
