Pakistan and Bahrain discussed expanding their existing defence cooperation after high-level talks held at the Joint Staff Headquarters in Rawalpindi.
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, who is on an official visit to Pakistan, visited the Joint Staff Headquarters where he was received by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif along with the chiefs of the three services, including Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif.
During their formal talks, both sides discussed options to strengthen their defence and security cooperation. Historically, Pakistan and Bahrain enjoy strong defence ties. Pakistan had reportedly helped Bahrain set up its naval forces and 18 per cent of the Gulf state’s air force comprises Pakistani personnel.
It is estimated that almost 10,000 Pakistanis are serving in security services of Bahrain. According to an official statement issued after the talks, the King of Bahrain lauded the professional competence, training and courage of the defence forces of Pakistan.
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