ABU DHABI: Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reaffirmed the desire to further strengthen their bilateral relations in different fields.
The understanding came at a meeting between Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Emirati Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi today (Tuesday).
They reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations, discussing ways to enhance cooperation in diverse areas including trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, technology, tourism and manpower.
Qureshi outlined his plans for showcasing the history as well as the future potential of Pakistan-UAE cooperation at EXPO 2020 Dubai in October 2021. The Foreign Ministers also discussed ways to provide fresh impetus to existing Pakistan – UAE ties.
FM Qureshi lauded the positive contribution of Pakistani Diaspora in the UAE towards the development and progress of both countries. He emphasized the need for nurturing and strengthening people-to-people linkages, as well as removing impediments that hamper travel between the two countries.
Pronouncing the UAE’s decision to roll-over the USD 2 billion deposit by the Abu Dhabi Fund, UAE’s Foreign Minister Abdullah affirmed the country’s commitment to extend every possible support to Pakistan. Qureshi thanked his counterpart, underscoring that the decision reflected the warm and brotherly ties between the two countries.
The Foreign Ministers also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Qureshi briefed his counterpart on the grave human rights situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ&K) and Pakistan’s consistent efforts to support the ongoing peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan.
Expressing sincere appreciation for UAE’s warm hospitality, Foreign Minister Qureshi reiterated his invitation to Foreign Minister Abdullah to visit Pakistan at the earliest opportunity.
In addition to his official engagements, the Foreign Minister met Pakistan Business Council, members of Pakistani community, including investors and businessmen, in Dubai and interacted with local and international media in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
