UAE, Pakistan launch strategic partnership

The governments of the UAE and Pakistan have launched a strategic partnership aimed at modernising government operations, marking a new milestone in bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, affirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening its long-standing friendship with the UAE and expanding cooperation across sectors.

He emphasised Pakistan’s intention to benefit from the UAE’s pioneering government practices, which have positioned it among the world’s most advanced nations in administrative modernisation.

Speaking during a meeting with a UAE government delegation, Prime Minister Sharif noted Pakistan’s recent reforms, such as advancing digital governance, paperless economic systems, and implementing identity-less customs protocols.

He highlighted Pakistan’s eagerness to adopt successful UAE models to promote data-driven decision-making and good governance.

Sharif recalled his recent visit to Abu Dhabi and his meeting with President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, describing the meeting as “highly fruitful” and praising the UAE’s ongoing developmental support and strategic initiatives in Pakistan.

During the visit, Prime Minister Sharif witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising the UAE-Pakistan strategic partnership for government modernisation.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, described the partnership as a continuation of the strong bilateral ties established by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

“Underscoring the commitment of the wise leadership to build upon these strong bilateral relations in a manner that ensures the sustainability of constructive cooperation aimed at promoting prosperity and mutual benefit for the peoples of both friendly nations,” he added.

Al Gergawi stated that under the leadership of Sheikh Mohamed and the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE continues to advance cooperation and strengthen its fruitful and positive partnership with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

He also emphasised the country’s commitment to broadening the scope of collaboration across various fields, in a manner that supports the shared vision and aspirations of both friendly nations.

Al Gergawi emphasised that this partnership will enhance bilateral cooperation through the sharing of best practices in governance, public administration, and institutional innovation.

The strategic partnership covers a wide range of fields including: Good Governance, Development Planning, Public Sector Reform, Human Capital Development, Urban Planning, and Science and Technology. Through this partnership, the two countries aim to foster mutual learning, institutional capacity-building, and implementation of modern, agile government systems.

WAM