Maria Imran 
Pakistan Bahrain trade cooperation received fresh momentum as the third session of the Joint Ministerial Commission opened in Islamabad. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani co-chaired the session, a day after the Bahraini minister arrived for a two-day official visit.
Dar described the friendship as strong and forward-looking, and pledged to take economic ties to new heights. The session followed a five-year gap, and the next meeting is planned in Bahrain in 2027, with a commitment to hold the fourth session within the following year.
Working Groups Target Wide-Ranging Agreements In Pakistan Bahrain Trade
Al Zayani said the talks covered more than 15 areas and produced several agreements. A joint working group on trade and investment will be established, while a separate group on energy will meet next month to discuss oil, gas and minerals.
Cooperation will also advance in food security, information technology, law enforcement, media, labour mobility, health, education, culture and sports. Pakistan sought wider recognition of academic degrees and professional qualifications, along with better mobility for skilled workers. More than 140,000 Pakistanis living in Bahrain were described as a living bridge between the two peoples.
GCC Free Trade Agreement Could Unlock Growth
Both countries have set a target of doubling bilateral trade within three years, with one year already elapsed. Dar highlighted the potential of a free trade agreement between Pakistan and the Gulf Cooperation Council, noting that the GCC secretary general had called it almost ripe, with one member yet to approve. Al Zayani confirmed that both sides remain committed to finalising the deal.
Dar also stressed that government-to-government efforts must be complemented by business-to-business engagement. Effective implementation through joint working groups, institutional partnerships and regular follow-up would turn the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations on 14 October into tangible economic and social benefits for both populations.
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