ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a two-day trip starting Monday at the invitation of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
During his stay, he will participate in the World Governments Summit (WGS) in Dubai, where global leaders, policymakers, and business executives will discuss governance, innovation, and international cooperation.
According to a statement from the Foreign Office (FO), this marks PM Shehbaz’s second visit to the UAE since assuming office in March 2024. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, along with other key cabinet members.
As part of his participation in the WGS, PM Shehbaz will deliver a keynote address, outlining Pakistan’s vision for inclusive economic growth, digital transformation, and governance reforms.
Strengthening Pakistan-UAE Relations
Beyond the summit, PM Shehbaz will hold bilateral meetings with UAE leadership, engage with heads of state from various countries, and interact with senior executives of multinational corporations.
The FO emphasized the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and the UAE, describing their relationship as one built on mutual trust, understanding, and longstanding cooperation. The UAE remains a key economic and strategic partner, with collaboration spanning multiple sectors.
Additionally, the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE, the second-largest community of overseas Pakistanis, plays a crucial role in strengthening economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
Recent Developments in Pakistan-UAE Relations
Last month, the UAE expressed strong interest in partnering with Pakistan in the minerals and agriculture sectors during a meeting between PM Shehbaz and President Al Nahyan in Rahim Yar Khan on January 5.
In a significant financial relief move, PM Shehbaz announced that the UAE agreed to roll over a $2 billion loan due in January, demonstrating the UAE’s continued support for Pakistan’s economic stability.
The visit underscores Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the UAE, exploring new opportunities for economic collaboration and mutual prosperity.
