Islamabad:Bahrain has recruited more than 1,800 security personnel and officers from Pakistan, according to statements made by Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

According to Anadolu Agency, Dar disclosed this information during the third session of the Pakistan-Bahrain joint ministerial commission held in Islamabad, co-chaired by Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. Dar thanked Al Zayani for recruiting 1,800 Pakistani soldiers, including 30 retired army officers, into the Bahrain National Guard. He expressed confidence in the recruits' performance, describing them as disciplined and among the best in the world.

Additionally, Dar noted that 13 officers and 37 soldiers from Pakistan have joined the Bahrain Coast Guard following an agreement between the Pakistan Coast Guard and Bahrain's Interior Ministry, signed on June 24.

The meeting also addressed the Middle East conflict, emphasizing the need to de-escalate tensions between the US and Iran, as well as between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi group. Dar reiterated Pakistan's support for the Palestinian people, expressing concern over illegal settlements and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Looking ahead, Pakistan and Bahrain will celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations next year, with a bilateral trade target of $1 billion. The Gulf nation is home to approximately 134,000 Pakistani nationals.

Dar also commented on regional issues, specifically criticizing India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. He described it as a violation of international law and a threat to Pakistan's water, food, and energy security, affecting 250 million people. India had suspended the treaty and sharing of water data with Pakistan after an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir last year, which resulted in 26 deaths.