Manama: Mahmood Rafique, Editor: Under the wise leadership of HRH the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister, Bahrain has so far managed the COVID-19 pandemic efficiently, objectively and in a result-oriented way.
Mohammed Ayub, Pakistan Ambassador said that his country would continue to work closely with Bahrain to combat this pandemic.
“We appreciate the adept handling of COVID-19 pandemic in Bahrain under the able command of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. Due to active role played by the Ministry of Interior, generally our people remained safe and comfortable during the pandemic. We also thank the Ministry for launching Visa Amnesty Scheme and waiver of fines during COVID-19. This enabled a number of Pakistanis to regularize their stay in Bahrain. The Ministry of Interior also supported our Mission in repatriation of pardoned prisoners, stranded Pakistanis and families to Pakistan.
“Pakistan contained the first three waves of the virus through a policy of smart lockdowns. The Government of Prime Minister Imran Khan implemented an US$ 8 billion relief package to support the poor and vulnerable and to keep our economy afloat at the sometime. The situation is very much in control. The vaccine roll-out campaign is going on at a much faster pace. Pakistan has put in place specific pre-departure requirements to curb the risk of virus spread through travel — including a valid proof of having received a WHO approved Covid-19 vaccine, a PCR test (72 hours prior to departure) and a rapid antigen test at the airport.”
“Since my arrival in this amazing country in April 2021, I am greatly touched by the warmth, hospitality and respect shown by the Bahraini people at all levels. The Kingdom of Bahrain under the sagacious leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has achieved remarkable economic development. Handling of the COVID-19 situation by the Bahraini Government is indeed exemplary which has been appreciated by the World Health Organization and other International Organizations.”
“Pakistanis living in the Kingdom of Bahrain are great source of pride for us. They are making valuable contributions in the socio-economic development of Bahrain as well as Pakistan. Pakistanis in Bahrain consider Bahrain as their home and work with dedication and loyalty. I would request Pakistanis living in the Kingdom of Bahrain to keep on working with greater dedication and contribute in the economic progress of both the countries,” he said.
As the Ambassador of Pakistan and a friend of Bahrain, he said, it will be my mission to work with my Bahraini colleagues to transform the close friendly ties into a mutually beneficial economic partnership.
