ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Monday said Pakistan and Bahrain have vast opportunities to explore collaboration in investment, trade, information technology and tourism.

He was meeting a high-level Bahraini parliamentary delegation led by President of the Council of Representatives Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam at the Parliament House.

The delegation is visiting Pakistan on the special invitation of Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.

During the meeting, the speaker highlighted the deep-rooted, longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Bahrain, based on shared religious, cultural and historical values.

“These commonalities have fostered mutual respect and understanding, paving the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors. Both nations have consistently worked together to promote regional stability, economic growth, and cultural exchange, making our partnership stronger with time,” the speaker said.

Mr Sadiq said that Pakistanis enjoy great respect in Bahrain, with several roads named after different personalities, reflecting Bahrain’s appreciation of their contributions.

He also extended an invitation to President Ahmed Bin Salman Al Musallam to visit Pakistan again next year.

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq stressed the need for proactive measures to enhance collaboration in investment, trade, business, tourism and IT sectors.

He noted that Saudi Arabia and Bahrain’s parliaments have made significant advancements in IT and technology.

He emphasised that bilateral agreements should lead to tangible outcomes, particularly in economic and trade sectors.

President of the Council of Representatives Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality.

He remarked that he never felt like he was outside Bahrain, emphasising the strong bond between the two nations that has flourished over the last five decades.

He encouraged the younger generation to continue this legacy of friendship and cooperation.

He assured full support in digitising Pakistan’s parliamentary system, suggesting that trade between Pakistan and Bahrain, currently stood at $800 million, should be doubled.

Second Deputy Speaker of the Bahraini Council of Representatives Ahmed Abdulwahed Qarata reaffirmed the close ties between Pakistan and Bahrain.

He recognised Pakistan’s central role in the Muslim World, particularly in the Arab region, and highlighted key areas for future collaboration.

Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2025