Pakistan and UAE Leaders Hold Strategic Dialogue in Abu Dhabi
President Asif Ali Zardari and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in high-level discussions on Tuesday, exploring concrete measures to further strengthen the longstanding and fraternal relations between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. The meeting, held during President Zardari's official visit to the UAE, was characterized by a mutual desire to elevate the bilateral partnership to new heights.
Comprehensive Review of Bilateral Cooperation
Accompanied by a high-level delegation, President Zardari met with the UAE President in Abu Dhabi, as confirmed by the President Secretariat Media Wing in an official press release. The two leaders conducted a thorough review of the entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation, identifying new and promising opportunities across multiple sectors.
The discussions specifically focused on expanding collaboration in:
- Trade and investment facilitation
- Energy sector development
- Infrastructure projects
- Technology transfer and innovation
- People-to-people exchanges
President Zardari emphasized the significant potential for enhancing the economic and strategic partnership between the two nations, building on existing foundations of trust and cooperation.
Appreciation for UAE's Support and Regional Dialogue
During the meeting, President Zardari highlighted the importance of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's recent visit to Pakistan, expressing sincere appreciation for the UAE's consistent support in strengthening bilateral ties. The dialogue extended beyond bilateral matters, with both sides exchanging perspectives on various regional and international developments.
The leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region and beyond, underscoring the strategic nature of their partnership.
The meeting was attended by distinguished Pakistani representatives including First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari MNA, Chairman of the People's Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Federal Minister of Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi, and Pakistan's Ambassador to the UAE.
AD Ports Group: A Key Pillar of Economic Cooperation
In a separate but related development, President Zardari held a significant meeting with Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group. The courtesy call, which took place in Abu Dhabi, focused on the group's expanding role in Pakistan's maritime and logistics sector.
President Zardari specifically appreciated AD Ports Group's long-term investment in Pakistan, describing it as "a key pillar of Pakistan-UAE economic cooperation." He highlighted the group's ongoing investments at Karachi Port, noting their instrumental role in enhancing port capacity, operational efficiency, and regional competitiveness.
Both sides reached consensus that the expansion and modernization of port infrastructure would significantly strengthen trade flows, support Pakistan's broader economic development, and boost the country's seaborne trade capabilities.
Digital Initiatives and Future Collaboration
President Zardari welcomed the establishment of AD Ports Group's Representative Office in Islamabad, recognizing it as a positive step toward closer institutional collaboration. He particularly appreciated the group's efforts in digital and customs facilitation initiatives aimed at improving trade efficiency between the two nations.
The meeting with AD Ports Group was attended by First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari MNA, Chairman People's Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Pakistan's Ambassador to the UAE, reflecting the high-level importance placed on this economic partnership.
President Zardari's visit to the UAE has effectively underscored the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation across multiple domains in the coming years.
