President Zardari met his UAE counterpart Tuesday to chart new paths for strengthening the historic Pakistan-UAE relationship. The meeting took place in Abu Dhabi as part of Zardari’s four-day official visit to the Gulf nation. He was accompanied by a high-level Pakistani delegation, including First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari.
The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. Both leaders explored opportunities in trade, investment, energy, infrastructure, technology, and people-to-people exchanges. They emphasized the significant potential for expanding Pakistan-UAE economic and strategic partnerships. President Zardari Conveyed his appreciation for the UAE’s ongoing support for closer cooperation and emphasized the significance of the UAE President’s recent trip to Pakistan.
Strengthening Economic and Strategic Cooperation
During the meeting, President Zardari and his UAE counterpart reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations. They highlighted the importance of economic collaboration, particularly in trade and investment. The two sides discussed ongoing and future projects, including infrastructure development and energy partnerships. Zardari praised the role of the AD Ports Group in Pakistan’s maritime sector, describing its investments at Karachi Port as crucial for improving port capacity, efficiency, and regional competitiveness.
The discussions also covered the expansion and modernisation of port infrastructure. Both leaders agreed that improving port facilities would strengthen trade flows and contribute to Pakistan’s broader economic development. President Zardari welcomed the establishment of AD Ports Group’s representative office in Islamabad and appreciated efforts to facilitate digital and customs cooperation aimed at enhancing trade efficiency.
Commitment to Peace, Tolerance, and People-to-People Ties
Earlier in the day, President Zardari met UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan. The meeting highlighted the importance of promoting dialogue, inclusivity, and peaceful coexistence. Zardari lauded the UAE’s national vision of tolerance and human fraternity, emphasizing its success in fostering unity among over 200 nationalities.
He noted that these values strongly align with Pakistan’s commitment to interfaith harmony, social inclusion, and respect for cultural and religious diversity, principles enshrined in the Constitution and societal traditions. Both sides also exchanged views on regional and international developments, reaffirming their commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development.
During the four-day visit, President Zardari will hold further high-level meetings to review bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, defence, security, and people-to-people ties. His trip follows the UAE president’s recent visit to Pakistan and underscores the deep brotherly ties between the two nations, aiming to transform friendship into a mutually beneficial partnership.
