Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates agreed on Sunday to move forward together after President Asif Ali Zardari met UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in Dubai as both sides discussed trade, investment and future cooperation.
The meeting took place in Dubai and focused on improving relations between the two countries. Both leaders talked about economic ties and ways to increase cooperation in different sectors, officials said.
They also exchanged views on Dubai’s development experience during the meeting and special focus was given to ports, logistics, infrastructure, information technology and digital financial services. Pakistan had showed interest in learning from Dubai’s rapid growth.
President Zardari also congratulated Sheikh Mohammed on completing twenty years as Ruler of Dubai. He praised how Dubai changed into a global centre for tourism and finance under his rule. The President said:
The city’s progress shows strong leadership and planning.
President Zardari
Pakistan’s President also spoke about ongoing economic reforms. He discussed investment facilitation and privatisation and talked about opportunities in infrastructure, food security and technology sectors.
In the meeting, President Zardari invited Sheikh Mohammed to visit Pakistan. Both leaders said high-level exchanges are important for strengthening ties.
They also highlighted the UAE’s continued support for Pakistan’s economy. The role of Pakistani people living in the UAE was mentioned, saying they help build people-to-people connections.
The meeting was attended by First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Officials said:
Both countries will stay in contact in the coming months. They added that cooperation will continue in trade and development areas as Pakistan and the UAE look to improve relations further.
Officials
Source: Radio Pakistan