Bahrain’s National Guard Commander General His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Isa Al-Khalifa (photo; right) attended a military parade held by the Pakistani Army marking Pakistan Day, which falls on the 23rd of March.

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Isa Al-Khalifa expressed congratulations to Pakistani President Arif Alvi and to the friendly Pakistani people on this occasion, commending the military parade delivered by the Pakistani Army. 

He lauded the strong relations binding the Kingdom of Bahrain and Islamic Republic of Pakistan, hailing the pivotal role of Pakistan in supporting regional security and stability, Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported.

He further commended the advanced level of military cooperation and exchange, which reflects bilateral partnership, spanning decades of development and prosperity between the two countries. 

Pakistan marked its national day on Saturday with a military parade showcasing its missiles, tanks and aircraft. Thousands gathered at the Islamabad Parade Ground to witness a stirring parade ceremony of the country's armed forces.

The three most celebrated foreign guests were Malysain Prime Minister Mahatir Mohamad, Azeri Defense Minister Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, in addition to the Commander of the National Guard of Bahrain, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Isa Bin Salman Al-Khalifa.

Azerbaijan and Malaysia are being courted as customers for the Sino-Pakistani JF-17, whereas Bahrain has recently become the first export customer for armored fighting vehicles designed by Pakistan’s Cavalier Group.

Other countries that participated in the parade included China, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Turkey. China and Turkey also sent aircraft to perform at the parade which included the Pakistani-built JF-17 fighter jet which shot down an Indian plane last month.

Earlier in January, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan visited Turkey in a highly-publicized visit for both countries, which closely cooperate in a number of fields, including defense, Daily Sabah reported.

Malaysia, Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia are all historic allies that Pakistan wants to expand as military system buyers, touting Pakistan manufacturers as cheaper alternatives to Western equipment.