Pakistan and Bahrain have agreed to continue practical steps to expand security cooperation, with a focus on counter-terrorism, narcotics control and organised crime.
According to details surfaced on Saturday, the understanding was reached during President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to Bahrain, where he met Bahraini Interior Minister Gen Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa. Both sides agreed to further strengthen security and counter-terrorism cooperation between the two countries.
The Bahraini interior minister made special mention of the role of Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, in promoting bilateral relations. President Zardari also praised Naqvi’s contribution, remarking that he regarded him as a son, after his own son Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
During the discussions, Pakistan and Bahrain agreed on joint measures against drug smuggling and emphasised the need for a coordinated strategy to combat organised crime. Both sides termed the Pakistan-Bahrain partnership as important for regional security and agreed to continue implementing practical measures to enhance security cooperation.
Separately, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari visited the Bahrain National Museum and the Pearl Museum. She was given a detailed briefing on Bahrain’s cultural heritage and stressed the importance of expanding cultural cooperation between Pakistan and Bahrain.
The First Lady appreciated Bahrain’s historical and cultural heritage and showed particular interest in the Dilmun civilisation and the country’s maritime traditions. Speaking on the preservation of national heritage, she said Bahrain’s cultural heritage and national identity were valuable assets for future generations.
