PM Imran Khan's trip bears fruit: Pakistan, UAE to enter economic partnership

Photo: Foreign Office Prime Minister Imran Khan left the UAE after a successful one-day visit on Sunday.   He was received by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan and the deputy supreme commander of the UAE's Armed Forces at the Presidential Palace. In a declaration issued by the UAE government, the two countries decided to enter a long-term strategic economic partnership. They resolved to strengthen trade and economic ties and eliminate all impediments to seamless flow of trade and investment between the two countries. They also expressed satisfaction over the fruitful outcome of the visit of the high-level UAE economic delegation to Pakistan recently and reiterated their resolve to transform the existing special relations into a strategic long-term economic partnership by adopting a direct, transparent and time bound approach. The two sides agreed to chalk out a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate cooperation and partnership in areas such as trade, investment, economic development, energy, infrastructure and agriculture. According to the declaration, the next Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission meeting will be held in Abu Dhabi February. It will be chaired by the foreign ministers of both countries.  It has also stated that there will be increased cooperation in the form of trainings, joint exercises and defence production. Related: Imran Khan to visit UAE on Nov 18, expected to return with economic assistance package  Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. The countries have pledge to improve cooperation to stop money laundering and human trafficking. PM Khan thanked the UAE for its support in the country’s bid to end polio.

Crown Prince Mohamed bin Zayed receives Pakistan’s Prime Minister Mr. Imran Khan at an official reception ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi.

Guard of Honor was given to Prime Minister Imran Khan ???? pic.twitter.com/lGilEkfmlp — Prime Minister's Office, Pakistan (@PakPMO) November 18, 2018

PM Khan was expected to secure some economic assistance funds for the country. He was accompanied by Army Chief General Qamar Bajwa, the ministers of finance, energy and petroleum, as well as the commerce adviser. During the visit, discussions were held on bilateral relations and matters of regional and international interest. The premier also met UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, besides other high officials in Dubai. PM Khan also visited the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Martyrs’ Memorial where he paid homage to Emirati heroes who had sacrificed in the service of their nation. Pakistan was hoping for a package from the UAE government to help it with the economic crisis. This is PM Khan’s second visit to the UAE since assuming office. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is already in Abu Dhabi to attend the Sir Bani Yas Forum where efforts to bring peace to the region were discussed.