Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and United Arab Emirates President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have called for expanding bilateral investment and deepening economic cooperation across multiple sectors, including energy, infrastructure, information technology, and emerging technologies. The discussions took place during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, marking Sheikh Mohamed’s first official visit to Pakistan.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the two leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration in trade, investment, and development-oriented initiatives that could deliver long-term, mutually beneficial growth. They noted that Pakistan and the UAE share strong historical and fraternal ties, which provide a solid foundation for expanding cooperation in both traditional and new economic sectors.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Sheikh Mohamed reviewed the progress achieved in ongoing areas of cooperation and explored new avenues for engagement. Particular focus was placed on enhancing bilateral trade volumes, encouraging greater private-sector investment, and leveraging opportunities in technology-driven sectors such as IT services, digital infrastructure, and innovation-led development. Officials said both sides acknowledged the significant untapped potential that exists for expanding commercial ties.
The two leaders also exchanged views on key regional and international developments, reaffirming their commitment to close coordination on issues of shared interest. While expressing satisfaction with the positive trajectory of Pakistan-UAE relations, they reiterated their determination to continue working together to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.
President Sheikh Mohamed arrived in Islamabad earlier in the day, accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers and senior officials. He was received at Nur Khan Airbase by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. Senior cabinet members and government officials were also present to welcome the visiting dignitary.
The UAE president was accorded a warm and ceremonial reception. His aircraft was escorted by Pakistan Air Force JF-17 fighter jets upon entering Pakistani airspace, reflecting the significance of the visit. A 21-gun salute was presented, followed by a guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the armed forces.
Officials said the visit reflects the depth of strategic partnership between Pakistan and the UAE, particularly at a time when Pakistan is seeking foreign investment to support economic recovery and long-term growth. The UAE remains one of Pakistan’s key economic partners, with cooperation spanning remittances, energy projects, infrastructure development, and humanitarian support.
In a symbolic gesture marking the visit, the government of Pakistan released a special welcome song titled ‘Ahlan wa Sahlan, Marhaba’. The song features visuals from President Sheikh Mohamed’s arrival, his ceremonial reception, and moments of interaction with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It also includes scenes of children presenting flowers to the UAE president, highlighting the people-to-people dimension of the bilateral relationship.
According to officials, the initiative was aimed at showcasing Pakistan’s hospitality and underscoring the longstanding friendship between the two nations. The song reflects sentiments of goodwill, mutual respect, and cooperation that characterize Pakistan-UAE relations at both governmental and public levels.
The one-day visit concluded with President Sheikh Mohamed’s departure later the same day. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that the visit is expected to further consolidate brotherly ties and open new pathways for collaboration in investment, technology, and economic development, reinforcing the strategic partnership between Pakistan and the UAE.
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