ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Air Force chief, Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Khan, met with Bahrain’s ruler, King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, at the headquarters of the kingdom’s military force on Tuesday, to discuss defense cooperation.
“King Hamad expressed his satisfaction on the level of brotherly relations and bilateral cooperation between the two countries,” the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) said in a statement.
The king also “expressed Bahrain’s keenness to further boost cooperation with Pakistan in the field of defense in general and Air Force in particular,” according to the statement.
The Air Force chief also met Bahrain National Guard commander Gen. Mohammed bin Isa bin Slaman Al-Khalifa and Bahrain Defense Force chief Lt. Gen. Dhiyab bin Saqr Al-Nuaimi.
PAF said that various matters of bilateral cooperation and professional interest were also touched on during the visit.
The Air Force chief also held a meeting with Royal Bahraini Air Force commander Maj. Gen. Sheikh Hammad bin Abdullah Al-Khalifa, who according to the PAF statement “appreciated high standards of professionalism being set by Pakistan Air Force over the years.”
The Pakistan Air Force chief offered training and aviation support to Bahrain’s Air Force, as both dignitaries reiterated their willingness “to further enhance the existing cordial relations.”
On Dec. 16, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan attended Bahrain’s National Day as a guest of honor on King Hamad’s invitation.
King Hamad also conferred Bahrain’s highest civilian recognition on PM Khan.
Pakistan and Bahrain enjoy close ties, and according to official data over 100,000 Pakistani expatriates living in the kingdom.