The UAE and Pakistan recently held the second round of political consultations aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation. These discussions were led by Rim Kittit, Deputy Assistant Minister for Political Affairs in the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Shahryar Akbar Khan, an Assistant Secretary for Middle Eastern Affairs in Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry. This article delves into the significant outcomes of the consultations, emphasizing the growing partnership and mutual interests of the two nations.
High-Level Meetings Prelude to Political Consultations
Prior to these political consultations, a high-level meeting took place between Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan. This important gathering occurred on the sidelines of the twelfth joint ministerial committee meeting between the two countries, hosted in Abu Dhabi.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The consultations provided a platform to underscore the robust bilateral relations between the UAE and Pakistan. Both sides discussed the recent high-level visits exchanged, expressing satisfaction with the continual growth in economic relations. Notably, non-oil trade between the two nations surpassed $8.6 billion in 2024, signaling a positive trajectory in their economic partnership.
Regional Developments and Security Cooperation
During the discussions, both parties exchanged views regarding regional developments, including the current situation in the Middle East and the latest discussions in the United Nations Security Council. The UAE welcomed Pakistan’s constructive role as a non-permanent member of the council and noted Pakistan’s preparations to assume the presidency of the council in July 2025. The two nations emphasized the importance of continued coordination on security issues and reiterated their commitment to supporting efforts to foster peace and stability in the region.
Commitment to Multilateral Collaboration
In terms of multilateral cooperation, both sides reviewed their close collaboration in the preparations for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, which will be co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal. The two countries reaffirmed their dedication to regularly holding political consultations to advance shared goals and serve the mutual interests of their peoples. The consultations were attended by notable figures, including Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, and Faisal Niaz Tarar, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, along with senior officials from both nations.