Special to WorldTribune.com

ABU DHABI — Bahrain plans to enhance military cooperation with Pakistan.

Officials said the two Asian Muslim states discussed military cooperation during the visit to Islamabad by Bahraini National Guard commander Gen. Mohammed Bin Issa Al Khalifa.

The officials said Mohammed, who met Pakistan Chief of Staff Gen. Rashid Mahmoud on Dec. 10, agreed to expand military training and joint exercises.

“We are satisfied by the progress in these relations,” Mahmoud said.

Pakistan has been a leading military and security supplier to Bahrain and other Gulf Cooperation Council states. Officials said Pakistan has provided manpower and training to most of the six GCC militaries and security forces.

Mahmoud said Pakistan has been conducting regular exercises with Bahrain’s military. The chief of staff also cited the training of Bahraini cadets in Pakistani military colleges.

Officials said cooperation would be expanded through additional training
and exercises as well as the exchange of visits.

The officials said Bahrain would also examine Pakistani combat platforms, including naval vessels.

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