Pakistan and UAE Ink Landmark Agreements to Deepen Bilateral Cooperation

In a significant step towards strengthening their relationship, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have formalized Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) focusing on “Mutual Exemption of Entry Visa Requirements” and the “Establishment of a Joint Task Force to Promote Investments.”

The two nations also signed an MoU for collaborative efforts in “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Economy” during the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), which took place in Abu Dhabi on June 24, as stated by the Foreign Office on Wednesday.

The JMC session, reconvened after a hiatus of 12 years, was jointly presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, along with UAE Deputy Premier and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In a post on X, Dar mentioned that he and his UAE counterpart ratified an accord concerning mutual visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic and official passports from both countries.

“This crucial measure demonstrates our mutual commitment to further bolster our fraternal bonds and enhance institutional cooperation across all levels,” he added.

Prior to the official proceedings, a JMC working group meeting was conducted under the leadership of Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa and UAE Minister of State Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh.

The JMC comprehensively assessed the breadth of bilateral relations and concurred on specific strategies to reinforce collaboration in areas such as trade, banking, culture, investment, aviation, railways, energy, food security, climate change, defense, healthcare, manpower, higher education, and information technology, according to the statement.

Both parties underscored the importance of enhancing institutional frameworks and encouraging coordination between ministries.

The session, characterized by mutual understanding and camaraderie, involved discussions on both regional and global developments.

Pakistan and the UAE reiterated their dedication to fostering peace and stability within the region.

A protocol was also signed, which outlines the procedural frameworks for subsequent actions, coordination via sectoral working groups, and facilitation of reciprocal visits.

Both sides conveyed their satisfaction with the results and agreed to host the 13th Session of the JMC in Pakistan on mutually agreeable dates.

The successful completion of the JMC session highlights the profound and diverse relationship between Pakistan and the UAE, as well as their collective vision for a vibrant and forward-looking partnership, the statement concluded.