UAE Crown Prince, PM Shehbaz Sign Key Investment Accords

The visit marked a significant step in strengthening

Pakistan-UAE relations through

enhanced economic cooperation

Associated Press of Pakistan

Islamabad: Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, arrived in Pakistan on Thursday for his first official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening Pakistan-UAE relations through enhanced economic cooperation.

Strategic Discussions and Agreements

The prime minister warmly received Sheikh Khaled and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening ties with the UAE. The leaders held a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks, discussing mutual interests, trade, investment, and regional connectivity.

Recalling his recent visit to Abu Dhabi, Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the growing Pakistan-UAE partnership and emphasized the transformative impact of joint economic projects. He also briefed the crown prince on Pakistan’s discussions with Uzbekistan regarding the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway Line, a project poised to benefit the ports of Gwadar and Abu Dhabi, enhancing regional connectivity.

Sheikh Khaled reiterated the UAE’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s economic progress and appreciated Pakistan’s initiatives to facilitate Emirati investments.

Key Agreements Signed

Pakistan and the UAE formalized their partnership through five agreements and MoUs, focusing on:

• Banking Sector – Strengthening financial collaboration.
• Mining Industry – Advancing joint ventures in mineral exploration.
• Railways – Boosting cooperation between Pakistan Railways and Etihad Rail.
• Infrastructure Development – Facilitating investment in major projects.
• Investment Expansion – Encouraging long-term economic collaboration.

The documents were exchanged in the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled, alongside senior government officials and business leaders from both nations.

Warm Reception and Guard of Honour

Upon arrival at Nur Khan Airbase, Sheikh Khaled was greeted by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and cabinet members. Children in traditional attire presented bouquets to the distinguished guest. The reception venue was adorned with Pakistani and Emirati flags, while folk artists performed cultural dances in celebration.

A formal welcome ceremony was held at the Prime Minister’s House, where Sheikh Khaled received a guard of honour. The national anthems of both countries were played as the prime minister and the crown prince stood at the salute dais. Following the review of the guard of honour, both leaders introduced their delegations before proceeding with official discussions.

Strengthening Long-Term Collaboration

The visit underscored Pakistan and the UAE’s shared vision for fostering long-term strategic cooperation. With high-level engagements and signed agreements, both nations are poised to expand their partnership across key economic sectors, ensuring mutual prosperity.

The UAE remains a key investor in Pakistan, and this visit is expected to further solidify economic ties, paving the way for joint ventures that will benefit both countries.