UAE pledges stronger $10 billion partnership with Pakistan during President’s visit
PM Shehbaz praises Sheikh Mohamed’s unwavering support in aid and development
RAHIM YAR KHAN: United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held pivotal talks with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday, aiming to bolster ties between the two nations.
The meeting in Pakistani city of Rahim Yar Khan focused on enhancing cooperation across key sectors, including trade, investment, and sustainable economic development.
Sheikh Mohamed’s visit reaffirmed the historic partnership between the UAE and Pakistan, with both leaders emphasising mutual goals of prosperity and growth. The discussions included a wide range of topics, such as regional stability, climate change, and collaboration in the global arena.
UAE-Pakistan ties
The UAE president expressed interest in exploring opportunities in Pakistan’s mining, minerals, and agriculture sectors. These discussions come in the backdrop of a $10 billion UAE pledge in May to invest in Pakistan's promising economic sectors, a commitment made during Shehbaz Sharif's visit to the Emirates.
Prime Minister Sharif extended his gratitude to Sheikh Mohamed for the UAE’s continued support in development and humanitarian efforts. He also reiterated Pakistan's readiness to collaborate in renewable energy, technology, infrastructure, and skill development.
Shared vision for stability
During the talks, both leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of shared concern. Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the UAE’s dedication to people-to-people connections, noting that over one million Pakistanis call the UAE their home. This community represents the Emirates' second-largest foreign resident population, underscoring the strong cultural and economic bonds between the two nations.
Pakistan’s integral role in the UAE's development was also acknowledged. From supporting Emirates airline in its formative years to being one of the first nations to recognise the UAE after its establishment in 1971, the partnership spans decades.
Mutual resolve for progress
As the UAE president personally drove the vehicle escorting Prime Minister Sharif, the leaders showcased camaraderie and mutual respect.
Sharif called the UAE his “second home” and applauded its leadership for its role as a key partner in Pakistan's progress.
The high-level meeting concluded with both sides pledging to elevate ties into a mutually beneficial strategic partnership.
Delighted to meet with my dear brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of UAE, today in Rahimyar Khan. Reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to further strengthen Pak-UAE cooperation and elevate our ties to a mutually beneficial strategic… pic.twitter.com/SmWi0qYaB4
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) January 5, 2025
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Sharif described the meeting as a step towards stronger collaboration, particularly in investment and economic sectors, ensuring shared prosperity.