PM Imran invites Bahrain counterpart to visit Pakistan

Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa calls premier, inquires after his health

Prime Minister Imran Khan received a telephone call from Prime Minister and Crown Prince of Bahrain Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa on Wednesday.

While reaffirming the strong bonds of amity that always existed between the leadership and people of the two countries, Premier Imran invited the crown prince to visit Pakistan.

He also hoped that the brotherly ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Bahrain will continue to prosper and strengthen in the years ahead, according to an official statement.

Also read: Prince Muhammad invites PM to visit Saudi Arabia

It was agreed to maintain positive momentum in high-level exchanges between the two brotherly countries.

Bahrain Prince Salman also inquired after PM Imran’s health and wished him a speedy recovery.

The premier thanked the crown prince for his call and conveyed warm greetings for Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain.

The two leaders also discussed the latest Covid-19 situation during the phone call.

On Monday, Premier Imran had a telephonic conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman and decided to undertake a visit to the kingdom – a development that suggests easing of tensions between the two countries.

This was the first telephonic interaction between the prime minister and the de facto Saudi ruler in two months and comes against the backdrop of covert diplomatic efforts to remove apparent hiccups in the bilateral relations.

Ties between Riyadh and Islamabad apparently soured because of differences on certain regional issues. The tensions had compelled Pakistan to return $3 billion to Saudi Arabia despite facing the tough economic situation.

The $3 billion loan was part of the $6 billion financial bailout package Saudi Arabia had extended to Pakistan after PM Imran took charge. But now, the two sides appear to have overcome their differences leading to visit by Imran to the kingdom at the request of Saudi crown prince.

(With additional input from Our Correspondent)