Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received a grand welcome at the Prime Minister House in Islamabad on Thursday as he arrived on his first official visit to Pakistan. His visit, aimed at strengthening economic and investment cooperation, is expected to mark a new chapter in Pakistan-UAE relations.
Upon landing at Rawalpindi’s Nur Khan Airbase, Sheikh Khaled was received by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, and MNA Aseefa Zardari-Bhutto. Senior government officials, diplomats, and cabinet members were also present at the warm reception. The distinguished guest was honored with a guard of honour at the PM House, where the venue was decorated with Pakistan and UAE flags. Children in traditional attire welcomed him with bouquets, symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.
The UAE delegation accompanying the crown prince comprises top ministers, senior officials, and leading business figures, reflecting the visit’s strong emphasis on investment and economic collaboration. During his stay, several agreements and MoUs will be signed, focusing on long-term joint ventures and economic partnerships.
The Pakistani Foreign Office emphasized that these commitments would pave the way for enhanced trade, economic growth, and investment opportunities. “This visit underscores the deep-rooted fraternal ties between Pakistan and the UAE, highlighting a shared commitment to economic prosperity and development,” the FO stated.
The visit follows a high-profile meeting on February 11, when PM Shehbaz Sharif met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. That engagement focused on climate finance and Pakistan’s economic development, further solidifying the diplomatic ties between the two nations.
With this historic visit, Pakistan and the UAE are set to deepen their economic, diplomatic, and cultural cooperation, reinforcing their position as key regional allies.