Accra:Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bahrain, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, conducted a joint press conference after the third meeting of the Bahrain-Pakistan Joint Ministerial Committee.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister welcomed the visit, emphasizing strong bilateral relations and announcing plans to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including economic, trade, industrial, food security, health, and technology. Both nations stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb to protect energy security, food supplies, and international trade.
Dr. Al Zayani extended greetings from Bahrain's leadership and expressed wishes for Pakistan's continued prosperity. He highlighted the upcoming 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries on October 14 and noted past visits by Pakistani leaders to Bahrain as key to strengthening bilateral relations.
The Foreign Minister announced that the committee's program covers over 15 areas, such as forming a joint trade and investment working group and planning a meeting of the energy working group next month. Both countries are committed to expanding cooperation and advancing a free trade agreement between the GCC and Pakistan, with progress to be reviewed in 2027.
Dr. Al Zayani praised Pakistan's contributions during regional crises, including its support for UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and efforts to facilitate US-Iran dialogue. He condemned Houthi militia attacks against Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Bahrain's solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the integral nature of its security to Bahrain.
Lastly, both sides discussed maritime security threats, underscoring the need to protect freedom of navigation and uphold international law. As non-permanent members of the UN Security Council, Bahrain and Pakistan pledged to continue their coordination in New York. Dr. Al Zayani concluded by affirming the strategic partnership and commitment to regional peace and prosperity.