ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Sunday underscored the importance of effectively pursuing the various initiatives taken for a strengthened strategic bilateral economic relationship, including working on a long-term investment framework agreement.
They also resolved to take all necessary measures to deal with matters related to trade enhancement and decided to form a task force to achieve the objective, the PM Office media wing said in a statement issued on the conclusion of the UAE Crown Prince’s official visit to Pakistan.
The two leaders noted that the forthcoming Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission, which would be co-chaired by the respective foreign ministers in Abu Dhabi in February 2019, could play a pivotal role in chalking out a comprehensive roadmap, and in fast-tracking the approval of pending agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs).
To counter white collar crimes, including money laundering, the two leaders instructed the authorities concerned to expedite the finalization of the Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement (MLAA).
They also expressed satisfaction at the ongoing defence and security cooperation and resolved to explore further collaboration in the areas of training, joint exercises and defence production.
On the invitation of Prime Minister, Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan paid a state visit to Pakistan on Sunday.
He was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising cabinet members and senior officials. The Crown Prince visited Pakistan after 12 years.
“The visit underscored the strength and substance of the Pakistan-UAE special relationship, which is based on the spirit of mutual affection and deep trust, and is rooted in age-old civilizational, religious, cultural and commercial affinities,” the statement said.
Earlier, at the Nur Khan Airbase, the Crown Prince was received by the Prime Minister and accorded a ceremonial reception at the Prime Minister’s House, which was followed by a tete-a-tete and delegation level talks.
In a special gesture of warmth and cordiality, Prime Minister Imran Khan accompanied the special guest to the Prime Minister’s House.
The two leaders expressed their resolve that while building on the strong and proud legacy, they would continue to strive for progress, prosperity and stability of both the UAE and Pakistan.
Both the leaders held wide-ranging talks focusing on all areas of bilateral relations.
Taking note of the positive trajectory of relations, the two leaders expressed their determination to further strengthen the historic and mutually beneficial relationship.
They also discussed various issues of regional and global importance and noted that complete identity of views on the issues serves as the basis of long-lasting and trusted friendship.
Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his gratitude for the generous balance of payment support of $3 billion and noted that the financial support showed the UAE’s continued commitment and friendship that remained steadfast over the years.
He also welcomed the UAE’s interest in investing in Pakistan’s oil and gas, logistics, ports and construction sectors.
The Prime Minister briefed the Crown Prince on the situation in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the plight of Kashmiris.
They strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and expressed their resolve to work closely to root out the scourge.
The Crown Prince recognized the efforts and unparalleled sacrifices made by Pakistan to eliminate terrorism and extremism.
Prime Minister Imran Khan briefed the UAE leadership about his government’s people-centric reform agenda, and the steps taken to promote transparency and accountability at all levels of government.
The Prime Minister briefed the Crown Prince about the efforts Pakistan was making to support and facilitate the Afghan-owned and Afghan-led reconciliation process.
He also appreciated the role the UAE was playing by hosting reconciliation talks in Abu Dhabi.
The two leaders agreed to work closely for the lasting peace and stability of Afghanistan.
The Prime Minister congratulated the leadership of UAE for declaring 2019 as the year of tolerance and noted that it was the best way to pay tribute to the vision and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The two leaders reiterated their strong belief that only by espousing the principles of tolerance, inclusivity, non-interference and focusing on a people-centric development agenda, the region could attain sustainable peace and stability.
Prime Minister Imran Khan thanked the UAE leadership and its people for their continued commitment to Pakistan’s socio-economic development in the shape of Pakistan Assistance Programme.
He thanked Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his support to eradicate polio from Pakistan.
The Crown Prince expressed his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his delegation.
