Bahrain’s King hosts luncheon for President Zardari

King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain hosted a luncheon in honor of President Asif Ali Zardari today. Accompanied by First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the President was also invited by the King to view Bahrain's world-renowned collection of pure-bred Arabian horses at the Royal Stud. 

The President was informed that as a celebrated patron of equine heritage, King Hamad personally oversees the preservation of ancient Bahraini horse lineages which are famed for their pure status and are distinguished by their speed and intelligence. 

Asif Ali Zardari expressed his profound admiration for King Hamad's dedicated efforts in preserving these rare bloodlines. He noted that the Arabian horse holds a significant and revered place in the shared cultural and Islamic history of Pakistan and Bahrain, serving as a symbol of the enduring bond between the two countries. 

The luncheon, held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, was attended by senior members of the Bahraini Royal Family and the high-level Pakistani delegation. 

First Lady visits Military Hospital Micro School in Bahrain

First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari today visited the Military Hospital Micro School at King Hamad University Hospital, an initiative supporting hospitalized children by integrating education into paediatric care.

She was briefed on how the Micro School enables young patients to continue their studies while receiving treatment, helping sustain academic progress and emotional well-being. Bibi Aseefa observed interactive classrooms and modern educational facilities, noting how the programme combines academic learning with therapeutic support. She engaged with staff and children, appreciating the role of teachers and hospital personnel in creating a nurturing environment that helps patients maintain a sense of normalcy and resilience. 

First Lady meets Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa

First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, called on Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King of Bahrain and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), at the Council’s headquarters here today.

During the meeting, both dignitaries exchanged views on the promotion of women’s empowerment, inclusive development, and strengthening institutional frameworks for the advancement of women in society. 

The First Lady appreciated Bahrain’s pioneering role and sustained achievements in empowering women through policy-driven initiatives and institutional leadership under the SCW.

The First Lady expressed deep admiration for Her Royal Highness’s decades of distinguished service, steadfast commitment, and dedication, not only to the people of Bahrain and the advancement of Bahraini women, but also as a meaningful contribution to the global cause of women’s empowerment. 

She remarked that H.R.H. Princess Sabeeka continues to serve as an inspiring example for women across the world through her visionary leadership and enduring public service.

The First Lady also shared details of her ongoing and future initiatives aimed at empowering women and strengthening family and community support structures. In this context, she highlighted Sindh’s flagship, women-centered recovery initiative undertaken after the unprecedented floods of 2022, under the able leadership and vision of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, through which 2.1 million climate-resilient homes have been built, an achievement of global significance. She further noted that the ownership titles of these homes were transferred to the women of the household, reinforcing women’s empowerment and enhancing economic and social security at the family level.

Both leaders expressed a shared vision for fostering inclusive development and promoting programmes that benefit families and children, underscoring the importance of community resilience, education, and social well-being.

The meeting was also attended by H.E. Dr. Sheikha Mariam bint Hasan Al Khalifa, Vice President of the Supreme Council for Women and former President of the University of Bahrain; H.H. Sheikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairperson of INJAZ Bahrain; H.H. Sheikha Nayla bint Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairperson of Royal Life Saving Bahrain; and H.E. Ms. Amna bint Ahmed Al-Rumaihi, Minister of Housing.