Islamabad, Pakistan– Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari met with Bahrain’s Interior Minister, General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, at the Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad, emphasizing the importance of enhancing security, immigration, counter-terrorism, and counter-narcotics cooperation between the two nations.

Chaudhry Asad Inayat reports that, during the meeting, President Zardari stressed the need for modernizing visa systems and introducing digital facilities to facilitate Pakistani professionals and workers in Bahrain.

The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Bahrain, inviting officials from Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior to visit Islamabad for further exchanges and cooperation.

He expressed enthusiasm for expanding cooperation in diverse fields, particularly in security, counter-terrorism, and capacity building.

This commitment underscores the strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bahrain, rooted in history, shared faith, and close people-to-people bonds.

President Zardari and Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including security, immigration, and counter-terrorism.

The president appreciated the existing cooperation between the two countries, including the visa abolition agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders.

He expressed hope for enhanced collaboration in these areas, highlighting the significant contributions of over 120,000 Pakistanis living and working in Bahrain.

The Bahraini Interior Minister conveyed the warm greetings of the leadership and people of Bahrain to President Zardari, reaffirming Bahrain’s strong commitment to further strengthening its fraternal relations with Pakistan.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior and Narcotics Control Talal Chaudhry, and Senator Nadeem Mandviwalla.

President Zardari emphasized the need for modernizing visa systems and exploring digital solutions to facilitate Pakistani professionals and workers in Bahrain.

This move aims to streamline the process and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, promoting easier travel and work opportunities between the two countries.

By leveraging technology, both nations can enhance cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, fostering stronger bilateral ties.

The meeting highlighted the importance of counter-terrorism and security cooperation between Pakistan and Bahrain. Both countries are committed to combating terrorism and ensuring regional stability.

The Bahraini Interior Minister’s visit to Pakistan demonstrates the two nations’ dedication to strengthening their partnership in these critical areas.

In a separate meeting, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Bahraini counterpart, General Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, agreed to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism, anti-narcotics, and immigration.

This agreement underscores the commitment of both nations to address common security challenges and promote regional stability.

The Interior Minister of Bahrain, Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, has reaffirmed the kingdom’s dedication to promoting a peaceful coexistence environment, peace, and regional stability.

Bahrain’s commitment to peace and stability is reflected in its human rights initiatives, including the alternative sentencing project and the open prison program. These efforts demonstrate Bahrain’s vision for a more just and peaceful society.

The meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and Bahrain’s Interior Minister, General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and Bahrain.

Both nations are committed to enhancing cooperation in security, immigration, counter-terrorism, and counter-narcotics, while promoting people-to-people exchanges and economic collaboration.

As the two countries continue to work together, their partnership is poised to grow stronger, fostering greater peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.