BEIJING, Nov 28 (APP):Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Bahrain is undoubtedly a successful and fruitful one. It has strengthened bilateral ties, explored new cooperation avenues, and laid a solid foundation for deeper mutual benefits between the two nations.
These views were expressed by Prof. Cheng Xizhong, Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute, a non-governmental Chinese think-tank on diplomacy and international studies based in Beijing.
In his remarks, he said that the top-level interactions between Pakistan and Bahrain mark a strategic deepening of their bilateral ties, with security and economic cooperation emerging as mutually reinforcing pillars.
The dialogues between leaders of Pakistan and Bahrain are a testament to the two countries’ commitment to addressing shared security challenges. By agreeing to boost counter-narcotics collaboration, strengthen law enforcement capacity and enhance intelligence sharing, Pakistan and Bahrain are not only shoring up their own security but also contributing to regional stability, he added.
Prof Cheng said that the focus on practical and institutionalized cooperation builds on the “strong foundations of mutual trust and respect”, turning their “brotherly relations” into tangible security outcomes.
Complementing this security cooperation is Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s push to unlock economic potential. His emphasis on structural reforms, digital modernization and deregulation, coupled with the opening of high-potential sectors like agribusiness, IT, minerals and tourism, sends a clear signal to Bahraini investors, he added.
The presence of Bahrain’s key officials, including the deputy prime minister and finance minister, at the business event reflects the host country’s recognition of Pakistan’s transformation and investment value. A private sector-led partnership in these new sectors could create win-win outcomes, driving economic growth in both nations.
What makes these interactions significant is their synergy: enhanced security provides a stable environment for economic collaboration, while increased economic engagement will further solidify their bilateral bond. As both sides reaffirm their resolve to strengthen partnerships, this dual-track approach positions Pakistan-Bahrain relations for long-term, sustainable growth, setting a model for regional cooperation built on mutual benefit, he said.
