Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed confidence that the upcoming Pakistan–GCC Free Trade Agreement will mark a major step forward in strengthening Pakistan’s trade relations with Gulf Cooperation Council nations, especially Bahrain.

Speaking to the business community in Manama, the prime minister said Pakistan is fully ready to support joint ventures, investment initiatives and long-term partnerships that can boost regional economic integration.

He urged Bahrain’s leadership and private sector to enhance cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in high-potential sectors such as industry, agriculture, information technology and fintech. Shehbaz Sharif noted that both countries share deep historical, cultural and religious ties, describing Pakistan and Bahrain as “brotherly nations” bonded by mutual trust and respect.

The premier emphasized that Pakistan and Bahrain have decades-long strategic relations, and the time has come to transform this partnership into stronger economic collaboration.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment, Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Islamabad’s willingness to expand cooperation with Bahrain in emerging fields including IT, artificial intelligence, agriculture technology and fintech innovation.

He also extended heartfelt appreciation to Bahrain’s leadership — including the King, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Crown Prince and Foreign Minister — calling his meetings with them highly constructive and encouraging.

The prime minister paid special tribute to the Pakistani community in Bahrain for their hard work and contributions to both nations. He noted that Pakistani workers sent home $484 million in remittances during the last financial year, terming it a remarkable achievement.

Shehbaz Sharif also thanked King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa for the warm hospitality offered to him and his delegation during their two-day official visit.