Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concluded a successful two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he participated in the World Governments Summit 2025 and held high-level meetings with UAE leadership, global investors, and regional counterparts to enhance economic and strategic cooperation.
Meeting with UAE president
During his visit, PM Shehbaz was warmly received by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for a meeting at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. The two leaders discussed strengthening Pakistan-UAE ties, particularly in trade, investment, and economic development.
The two sides discussed measures to strengthen ties to benefit mutual interests, as well as other topics consistent with both countries' aspirations for long-term economic growth and prosperity.
The meeting also discussed the importance of the World Governments Summit in detecting global governance trends and proposing actionable measures to improve government preparedness for navigating global transitions. "The discussions underscored the importance of leveraging these shifts to accelerate development and build a better future for all," said a press statement.
The two sides also discussed a number of regional and international problems of mutual importance, with a particular emphasis on developments in the Middle East. They highlighted the importance of increased international efforts to create new horizons for a comprehensive and long-term peace based on the two-state solution in order to sustain regional security, stability, and peace.
PM Shehbaz, on his part, underlined Pakistan's commitment to deepening its long-standing ties with the UAE and extending cooperation, notably in economic, trade, and investment areas that align with both countries' development priorities.
Talks with Dubai ruler
PM Shehbaz also met Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and UAE vice president, who reiterated his commitment to strengthening the deep and longstanding Pakistan-UAE relations. The premier praised Dubai’s remarkable transformation as a testament to visionary leadership and highlighting Pakistan's investor-friendly policies, invited Emirati businesses to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reiterated the commitment to further strengthening economic and cultural ties with Pakistan. Both sides agreed to promote bilateral cooperation, explore new avenues for economic and strategic cooperation.
The PM also thanked the UAE for the extra care of Pakistani diaspora. Mohammad bin Rashid lauded the diaspora's role in the UAE's cooperation and development.
Meeting with US investor Gentry Beach
The PM engaged with renowned American investor Gentry Beach, highlighting Pakistan’s investor-friendly policies and economic stability. He noted that the government has taken priority measures to facilitate foreign investors, improve the ease of doing business, and create employment opportunities through lower interest rates.
"This is the best time for foreign investors to benefit from the investment opportunities available in Pakistan," Shehbaz noted, adding that the US and Pakistan enjoyed decades-long relations and expressed commitment to promoting trade and investment between the two countries.
Gentry Beach praised Pakistan’s economic stability under the leadership of PM Shehbaz, and expressed a keen interest in investing across multiple sectors, reaffirming plans for early implementation of investment projects. He described the government’s policies as conducive to business and investment.
Bilateral engagements with global leaders
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Shehbaz met with key global leaders, including:
- Kuwaiti Prime Minister Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, where both leaders expressed satisfaction over the positive momentum of bilateral relations and committed to transforming them into a strong economic partnership. They also expressed determination to further expand bilateral cooperation.
- First meeting with Sri Lankan President Anuradha Kumaratunga, where they discussed enhancing trade, defense, religious tourism, and sports ties. The meeting also explored reviving SAARC for regional development. Both leaders agreed to promote goodwill between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, enhance high-level exchanges, and explore new opportunities for better cooperation. The Sri Lankan president appreciated the cordial and strong relations between the two brotherly countries.
- Chairperson of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where both sides agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation.
Boosting trade with DP World
PM Shehbaz also met DP World Group Chairman and CEO Ahmed Bin Saleem, appreciating the company's "meaningful investment" in Pakistan. "Such activities will further strengthen Pak-UAE trade relations," the PM stressed. He also lauded DP World’s role in enhancing trade and logistics infrastructure.
The meeting highlighted ongoing projects and reaffirmed commitments for early completion under intergovernmental agreements. The premier also stated that Pakistan had become an attractive destination for global investors due to an improved environment.
The DP World Group chairman thanked the PM for his government’s continued support, and reaffirmed the commitment to ensure timely completion of projects and explore new avenues of cooperation. DP World also announced the allocation of a special hall to promote Pakistani exports in the UAE, providing greater market access for Pakistani products.
Vision for governance and innovation
PM Shehbaz attended the Edge of Government Exhibition, where he was briefed on innovative governance solutions. He interacted with experts offering cutting-edge strategies for improving government efficiency and economic growth.
