Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has articulated a strong desire to transform the existing political goodwill between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) into a more robust economic partnership. This intent was conveyed during a meeting with UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi in Islamabad.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Ambassador extended congratulations to Prime Minister Sharif on his re-election and shared the best wishes of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both parties expressed optimism for the future, anticipating further strengthening of the deep fraternal ties that have long characterized the relationship between the two nations.
Prime Minister Sharif commended the UAE’s evolution into a dynamic center of commerce, tourism, and investment, expressing Pakistan’s eagerness to forge closer ties, especially in sectors such as agriculture, minerals and mining, Information Technology, renewable energy, and industry. He highlighted the pivotal role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council in attracting foreign investments to these key areas.
Moreover, the Prime Minister lauded the UAE for its significant contributions to global and regional issues, including hosting the COP 28 meeting on climate change and its peace efforts in Gaza while serving on the United Nations Security Council. He also acknowledged the vital link provided by the nearly 1.8 million Pakistanis residing in the UAE, who serve as a bridge between the two countries.
Ambassador Al-Zaabi reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with Pakistan under Prime Minister Sharif’s leadership. The Prime Minister graciously accepted an invitation from Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to visit the UAE and reciprocated with an invitation for the UAE President to visit Pakistan, promising a warm reception.
This exchange underscores the mutual commitment to advancing Pakistan-UAE relations, with a clear focus on economic cooperation as a foundation for future growth and prosperity.