The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a significant step towards expanding its investments in Pakistan. UAE’s focus areas include shipping, port efficiency, logistics, and customs digitisation.
During a high-profile meeting in Islamabad on Friday, the two nations signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements, signed with the Abu Dhabi Ports Group, target cooperation in various sectors. The MoUs establish partnerships with Pakistan’s Ministries of Maritime Affairs, Aviation, Railways, and the Federal Board of Revenue.
The agreements focus on modernising customs, enhancing freight rail corridors, strengthening maritime shipping, and upgrading airport infrastructure. The MoUs aim to drive growth by improving Pakistan’s infrastructure and efficiency in these sectors.
UAE’s Delegation Led by Minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi
Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, led the UAE delegation. He, along with other UAE investors, met with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Dr Zeyoudi expressed strong interest in Pakistan’s economic potential, particularly in sectors that can support logistical and trade efficiency.
The UAE delegation included prominent figures such as Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Kaheel Group; Capt. Mohamed Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports Group; UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi; and other senior officials from Abu Dhabi Ports.
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Key Areas of Cooperation
The MoUs set out specific goals. The UAE has committed to supporting Pakistan in:
- Digital Customs Modernisation: Improving customs controls through digital technology to boost trade efficiency.
- Freight Rail Development: Developing dedicated freight rail lines to support logistical needs.
- Maritime Fleet Enhancement: Expanding Pakistan’s maritime shipping capabilities for trade.
- Airport Infrastructure Upgrades: Improving facilities and services at Pakistan’s international airports.
These partnerships are expected to drive growth by bolstering Pakistan’s transport and trade infrastructure, facilitating smoother cross-border trade.
PM Shehbaz Welcomes UAE Support
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed appreciation for UAE’s commitment. He thanked UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for their continued support of Pakistan. PM Shehbaz highlighted the strong, fraternal bond between the two countries, rooted in shared history and cultural values.
He also praised the UAE for its investment in Pakistan’s economic development. “The UAE’s commitment to increasing its investment footprint in Pakistan is a testament to the strength of our bilateral relations,” he stated. The Prime Minister stressed that UAE investments hold the potential to significantly strengthen Pakistan’s economic stability.
High-Level Pakistani Attendance
Pakistan’s top officials attended the meeting, reflecting the importance of UAE’s investment. Attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi.
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