PM Shehbaz Sharif Concludes Successful UAE Visit, Strengthening Economic and Strategic Partnerships
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wrapped up a productive two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he attended the World Governments Summit 2025 and engaged in high-level meetings with UAE leadership, global investors, and regional counterparts to boost economic and strategic cooperation.
Meeting with UAE President
During his visit, PM Shehbaz was warmly welcomed by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. Their discussions focused on enhancing bilateral ties in trade, investment, and economic development.
Both leaders explored measures to strengthen relations that align with their long-term economic growth and prosperity goals. They also acknowledged the World Governments Summit’s role in identifying governance trends and developing strategies to navigate global transitions effectively.
A press statement emphasized that their discussions highlighted the need to leverage these changes to drive development and build a better future.
The two sides also addressed key regional and international issues, particularly developments in the Middle East. They underscored the importance of global efforts to establish lasting peace, advocating for a two-state solution to ensure regional stability and security.
Read More: Pakistan and Qatar conduct second round of political consultations
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its strong ties with the UAE, particularly in economic, trade, and investment sectors that align with both nations’ development agendas.
Talks with Dubai Ruler
PM Shehbaz also met Dubai Ruler and UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who reiterated his commitment to strengthening the long-standing Pakistan-UAE relationship.
The premier praised Dubai’s transformation, attributing it to visionary leadership, and invited Emirati businesses to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid expressed a strong commitment to further enhancing economic and cultural cooperation. Both leaders agreed to expand bilateral collaboration and explore new economic and strategic opportunities.
The PM also thanked the UAE for its support of the Pakistani diaspora, while Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid appreciated the Pakistani community’s contributions to the UAE’s development.
Meeting with US Investor Gentry Beach
PM Shehbaz engaged with renowned American investor Gentry Beach, highlighting Pakistan’s investor-friendly policies and economic progress. He assured that the government has introduced reforms to facilitate foreign investors, streamline business operations, and boost employment opportunities through lower interest rates.
“Now is the best time for foreign investors to take advantage of Pakistan’s growing investment landscape,” the PM noted, reaffirming Pakistan’s long-standing economic ties with the US.
Gentry Beach praised Pakistan’s economic stability under PM Shehbaz’s leadership and expressed strong interest in investing across multiple sectors. He also acknowledged the pro-business policies of the government and pledged early implementation of investment projects.
Bilateral Engagements with Global Leaders
On the sidelines of the World Governments Summit, PM Shehbaz met with key global leaders, including:
- Kuwaiti Prime Minister Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah – Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum of bilateral relations and committed to transforming them into a strong economic partnership. They also agreed to expand cooperation across multiple sectors.
- Sri Lankan President Anuradha Kumaratunga – This marked their first meeting, where they discussed enhancing trade, defense, religious tourism, and sports ties. They also explored the revival of SAARC for regional development and agreed on promoting high-level exchanges. The Sri Lankan president lauded the cordial relations between the two nations.
- Chairperson of Bosnia and Herzegovina – Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation.
Boosting Trade with DP World
PM Shehbaz also met DP World Group Chairman and CEO Ahmed Bin Saleem, appreciating the company’s significant investments in Pakistan. He emphasized that such partnerships would further strengthen Pak-UAE trade relations.
Discussions centered on ongoing projects and their timely completion under intergovernmental agreements. The PM highlighted Pakistan’s improved business environment, making it an attractive destination for global investors.
The DP World chairman thanked the PM for his government’s support and reaffirmed commitment to completing projects on schedule while exploring new avenues for collaboration. DP World also announced the allocation of a dedicated space in the UAE to promote Pakistani exports, ensuring greater market access for Pakistani products.
Vision for Governance and Innovation
During the visit, PM Shehbaz attended the Edge of Government Exhibition, where he was briefed on innovative governance solutions. He engaged with experts presenting cutting-edge strategies aimed at improving government efficiency and economic growth.
