Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for increased investment from the United Arab Emirates in key economic sectors, underlining Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its long-standing partnership with the Gulf nation. The invitation was extended during a meeting with UAE Ambassador Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi in Islamabad, reflecting Islamabad’s focus on economic revival and sustainable development.
During the discussion, the prime minister reaffirmed that Pakistan places high value on its historic, strategic, and people-to-people ties with the UAE. He described the bilateral relationship as one rooted in mutual trust and shared interests, adding that Pakistan remains keen to expand cooperation across economic and development-oriented domains.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed gratitude for the UAE’s consistent support during challenging times. He acknowledged the Emirates’ role in providing humanitarian assistance and contributing to various development initiatives in Pakistan, noting that such support has strengthened bilateral goodwill and cooperation.
Highlighting the current state of trade relations, the prime minister expressed satisfaction with the volume of bilateral trade between the two countries. At the same time, he emphasized that there remains significant untapped potential. He urged both sides to work closely to enhance trade flows, promote joint ventures, and facilitate greater investment that can contribute to long-term economic stability.
The prime minister specifically identified priority sectors where UAE investment could play a transformative role. These include energy, minerals, information technology, railways, and aviation. He noted that Pakistan is undertaking economic reforms and improving its business environment to attract foreign investors, offering competitive opportunities and policy support.
According to officials, the government is particularly interested in leveraging UAE expertise and capital in infrastructure development, digital innovation, and energy diversification. Such collaboration, the prime minister said, would not only generate employment but also strengthen Pakistan’s productive capacity and export potential.
In response, Ambassador Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi conveyed the UAE’s strong interest in further deepening its partnership with Pakistan. He reaffirmed his country’s resolve to expand cooperation across multiple sectors and emphasized that the UAE views Pakistan as a key partner in the region.
The ambassador assured Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that he would actively work to identify new avenues of cooperation and investment that deliver mutual economic benefits. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to stabilize its economy and improve the investment climate.
The meeting reflects a broader diplomatic push by Pakistan to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen economic diplomacy. With both sides expressing optimism and commitment, Pakistan-UAE relations appear poised for deeper economic engagement in the coming period.
