The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed a strong interest in expanding its investments in Pakistan, with a particular focus on enhancing shipping, port efficiency, logistics, and customs digitization. This commitment was formalized through the signing of four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the two countries during a high-profile meeting in Islamabad on Friday.
Led by UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, a delegation of UAE investors met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss cooperation across multiple sectors. The MoUs, signed with the Abu Dhabi Ports Group, cover key partnerships with Pakistan’s Ministries of Maritime Affairs, Aviation, Railways, and the Federal Board of Revenue.
The agreements target several strategic areas, including the modernisation of customs processes, development of dedicated freight rail corridors, the expansion of Pakistan’s maritime fleet, and enhancements to international airport infrastructure. A significant focus will be on improving digital customs controls and streamlining freight logistics, which are expected to drive efficiency and foster economic growth.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the UAE delegation and expressed his gratitude to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for their continued support of Pakistan. He emphasized the deep-rooted, fraternal bond between the two nations, built on shared history and cultural values.
In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the ongoing progress in bilateral trade, energy, and investment, noting that the UAE’s commitment to expanding its investment footprint in Pakistan will play a pivotal role in strengthening the country’s economic stability and fostering prosperity.
“The UAE’s decision to increase its investments is a testament to the enduring strength of our bilateral relations,” PM Shehbaz remarked.
The UAE delegation included prominent figures such as Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Kaheel Group; Capt. Mohamed Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports Group; UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi; and other senior officials from AD Ports.
On the Pakistani side, key attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, and other senior government officials.
This partnership signals a significant step forward in the UAE’s role as a key investor in Pakistan’s economic development, particularly in the areas of logistics and infrastructure.
