In a significant meeting, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister, hosted Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. This engaging dialogue, part of the twelfth session of the Joint Higher Committee between the UAE and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan held in Abu Dhabi, revolved around the topic of bilateral relations and ways to strengthen ties to benefit both nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During the meeting, Sheikh Abdullah and Minister Dar discussed various avenues to enhance the bilateral relations between their countries. This collaboration aims to serve mutual interests and bring prosperity to the citizens of both nations. Following their discussions, the two dignitaries formally signed the minutes of the twelfth session of the Joint Higher Committee, solidifying their commitment to ongoing cooperation.
Significant Agreements Signed
Significantly, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Muhammad Ishaq Dar also signed a memorandum concerning mutual visa exemption between the UAE and Pakistan. This agreement is expected to facilitate easier travel and encourage greater people-to-people connections, thereby bolstering tourism and business opportunities.
Furthermore, the two sides ratified a memorandum aimed at creating a cooperative mechanism to enhance UAE investments in strategic sectors in Pakistan. This initiative was signed by Muhammad Hassan Suwaidi, the UAE Minister of Investment, and Tariq Bajwa, the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, highlighting a robust framework for future economic partnerships.
Expanding into Technology and Innovation
The meeting also facilitated the signing of an agreement focusing on artificial intelligence and the digital economy between the two countries. This landmark agreement, signed by Suwaidi and Azhar Hashmi Khan, the Federal Secretary of Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications, underscores the commitment to embracing technological advancements for mutual benefit.
A Legacy of Solidarity
Attending the Joint Committee session were key figures, including Muhammad Hassan Suwaidi and Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, the UAE Minister of State, alongside other senior officials. Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, who led the UAE delegation, expressed his appreciation for Minister Dar’s efforts to foster stronger ties. He emphasized that the meeting demonstrates the deep-rooted partnership that has flourished over decades of mutual cooperation and shared vision between the two friendly nations.
He further highlighted Pakistan’s historical significance as a partner to the UAE, referencing the impressive growth in non-oil trade between the countries, which surpassed $8.6 billion in 2024. As this diplomatic relationship continues to evolve, both nations remain committed to enhancing their shared objectives and securing a prosperous future for generations to come. The discussions surrounding bilateral relations exemplify the ongoing dedication to this enduring partnership.