ISLAMABAD, Friday, December 19, 2025 (WNP): Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Pakistan, Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi, on Friday called on President Asif Ali Zardari and held discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing shared interests.

Welcoming the newly appointed ambassador, President Zardari conveyed his best wishes for a successful tenure and expressed appreciation for the services rendered by the outgoing envoy. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s gratitude for the UAE’s longstanding support, particularly in the economic and infrastructure sectors, and reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to host UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on an official visit at mutually convenient dates.

The meeting reviewed the close and brotherly ties between Pakistan and the UAE and explored avenues to further expand cooperation across political, economic, defence and people-to-people domains.

President Zardari noted that while the UAE remains Pakistan’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, there is significant potential to deepen collaboration in investment, energy, the digital economy and infrastructure development.

Reflecting on the historical depth of bilateral relations, the President said the UAE has held a special place for his family since the founding of the Emirates, with ties spanning generations—from Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto to the present day. He described this personal bond as a reflection of the trust, warmth and mutual respect that underpin Pakistan–UAE relations.

President Zardari also paid tribute to the Pakistani community in the UAE, acknowledging its vital contribution to the country’s development and its role as a strong bridge between the two nations.

Parliamentary Leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the Senate, Senator Sherry Rehman, and Senator Saleem Mandviwala were also present during the meeting.