Abdullah bin Zayed and Pakistani Counterpart Pave Way for Joint Progress

A Historic Diplomatic Exchange

In a significant diplomatic exchange, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, held a productive phone call with Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan¹. This conversation underscores the robust and expanding historical ties between the two nations.

Deep-Rooted Bilateral Relations

The UAE and Pakistan have enjoyed a long-standing relationship that dates back to the UAE’s formation in 1971. Pakistan was one of the first countries to recognize the UAE, and since then, the two countries have developed wide-ranging cooperation in various fields.

Strategic Partnership and Cooperation

The ministers discussed avenues to enhance bilateral relations and strategic partnership, focusing on mutual interests that benefit both countries and their peoples. The dialogue reflects a mutual keenness to reinforce these bonds and enhance opportunities for collaborative efforts.

Over the past year, the relations between the UAE and Pakistan have been quite positive and have shown significant growth. Here are some key events throughout a year:

• Trade and Economic Relations: The UAE is Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner, and bilateral trade has been on the rise. In 2021, the UAE exported goods worth US$7.13 billion to Pakistan, and Pakistani exports to the UAE reached US$1.52 billion in 2022. The bilateral trade increased by 25.40 percent in 2021-22, amounting to $10.60 billion. The two countries have also been discussing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to deepen their trade and investment ties.
• Diplomatic and Strategic Partnerships: Both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen their strategic partnership and intensify consultations and coordination in key areas. They have agreed to further enhance bilateral relations in diverse areas⁵.
• Cultural and People-to-People Ties: There is a strong bond of friendship between the UAE and Pakistan that spans over 70 years, encompassing trade, culture, faith, and religion. The UAE is home to more than 1.6 million Pakistanis who contribute to the country’s development in various fields².
• High-Level Meetings: In November 2023, the UAE President and the Pakistani Prime Minister discussed cooperation between the two nations, with a focus on expanding opportunities in economic, investment, and developmental areas. They emphasized agriculture, food security, energy, and sustainable development¹.
• Memorandums of Understanding: During the same visit, the two countries exchanged memoranda of understanding in various fields, including banking and financial services, energy, food and agriculture, logistics, mining, port operations, and water treatment.
• Trade Growth: For the first two months of 2023, trade figures between Pakistan and the UAE crossed over $1 billion, with food and textiles as major export items to the UAE.
• Strategic Partnership: Pakistan and the UAE have agreed to intensify consultation and coordination to strengthen their strategic partnership and develop tangible bilateral cooperation in key areas.

Economic, Trade, and Development Cooperation

The two sides reviewed prospects for joint cooperation in various fields, including economic, trade, and development sectors. These discussions are pivotal in supporting the efforts of both countries to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development.

Solidarity in Adversity

The Pakistani government extended its wishes for the continued safety of the UAE and its people in light of the recent challenging weather conditions and heavy rainfall experienced by the country. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed conveyed his gratitude for the solidarity shown by the Pakistani government and the Pakistani community residing in the UAE.

A Future of Collaborative Success

The engagement between Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and Muhammad Ishaq Dar sets the stage for a future where joint progress is not just envisioned but actively pursued. It’s a testament to the power of diplomacy in paving the way for a brighter, shared future.