ISLAMABAD: In a key diplomatic development, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Friday reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations, with a particular focus on trade, economic development, and regional stability.
The five-hour visit—described by officials as a “milestone” in UAE-Pakistan relations—marked the first official visit to Pakistan by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in his current capacity. Despite its brevity, the visit was termed substantive, centring on reinforcing the longstanding partnership between the two countries.
According to an official statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, President Sheikh Mohamed held productive talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, covering a wide range of issues including economic cooperation, energy, infrastructure development, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.
UAE president to review full range of bilateral ties during Friday visit
Both leaders emphasized the significant potential for expanding bilateral trade, acknowledging untapped opportunities in multiple sectors. The discussions also explored new avenues of collaboration, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology.
In his remarks following the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif expressed satisfaction with the outcomes, noting that Pakistan-UAE relations continue to deepen under Sheikh Mohamed’s leadership.
“Pakistan is proud of its deep-rooted ties with the UAE, which grow stronger with each passing year. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed’s visit further strengthens the warmth and friendship between our two nations,” the prime minister said in a post on X.
The statement further noted that the talks also addressed broader regional and global issues, including the importance of peace, stability, and sustainable development. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to addressing challenges affecting the wider international community.
President Al Nahyan was accorded a grand reception upon his arrival at Nur Khan Airbase, where a 21-gun salute was presented and the national anthems of both countries were played. A formation of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) aircraft escorted the UAE president’s plane as it entered Pakistani airspace, symbolizing the close and cordial ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and other senior officials were present to receive the visiting dignitary. Military bands performed ceremonial music, while schoolchildren waved the flags of both countries in a gesture of goodwill.
The UAE delegation accompanying President Al Nahyan included Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi, and other senior officials.
The visit is expected to lay the groundwork for further strengthening bilateral cooperation and deepening the strategic partnership between Pakistan and the UAE in the years ahead.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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