Strengthening Bonds: PM Shehbaz Reaffirms Pakistan's Commitment to Enhanced UAE Cooperation

PM Shehbaz Reaffirms Pakistan's Commitment to Further Enhance Mutually Beneficial Cooperation with UAE

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to fostering stronger, mutually beneficial cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). During a significant telephonic discussion with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, PM Sharif lauded the UAE’s “consistent and unwavering support,” acknowledging its instrumental role in helping Pakistan navigate through various challenges. He emphasized that this steadfast assistance truly embodies the deep-rooted, fraternal bonds connecting the leadership and peoples of both nations, built on years of shared history and collaboration.

Deepening Bilateral Ties: A Foundation of Shared History and Economic Strength

The relationship between Pakistan and the UAE is meticulously woven from a rich tapestry of historical connections, shared cultural values, and robust people-to-people interactions. Millions of Pakistani expatriates reside and contribute significantly to the UAE’s economy, while their remittances form a critical lifeline for Pakistan’s foreign exchange inflows. Over the years, the UAE has also solidified its position as one of Pakistan’s principal trading partners and a vital source of foreign investment, further cementing their strategic partnership.

Sustained Diplomatic Engagement: High-Level Visits Underscore Strong Partnership

This enduring commitment to partnership is frequently reinforced through consistent high-level diplomatic exchanges. Both leaders fondly recalled their recent in-person meetings in Islamabad and Rahim Yar Khan last December, which took place during President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s inaugural official visit to Pakistan. These cordial interactions served as powerful affirmations of their shared ambition to further strengthen the historic and fraternal ties between their countries.

Beyond these recent dialogues, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari also undertook a four-day official visit to the UAE last month, where he met with President Al Nahyan. Discussions during his visit centered on fostering peace and stability, alongside reviewing key regional and international developments, further cementing the strategic alignment between the two nations.

Throughout these warm and constructive conversations, both Prime Minister Sharif and President Al Nahyan reiterated their collective resolve to continuously enhance mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors. They also pledged to maintain close contact, ensuring ongoing collaboration and timely addressing of matters of mutual interest.

Forging an Economic Future: The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)

Looking ahead, the economic dimension of this robust bilateral relationship is set for a significant boost. UAE Ambassador Hammad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi recently announced that Pakistan and the UAE are at the final stage of finalizing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This landmark agreement is poised to substantially elevate bilateral trade volumes and dismantle existing business obstacles, paving the way for unprecedented economic growth.

Ambassador Al-Zaabi underscored that the current trade volume, estimated between $8-10 billion, falls short of reflecting the true potential of their robust relations. He conveyed his government’s firm intention to double this figure in the shortest possible time, signaling an ambitious and forward-looking economic roadmap for both nations.

A Future of Deeper Collaboration

The continuous high-level engagement and strategic initiatives like the CEPA clearly demonstrate a vibrant, forward-looking partnership. As Pakistan’s leadership, including PM Shehbaz, reaffirms its commitment to further enhance mutually beneficial cooperation with UAE, the future holds immense promise for deeper collaboration across economic, social, and diplomatic spheres, solidifying a bond that continues to grow stronger with time and shared aspirations.