ISLAMABAD, Monday, December 8, 2025 (WNP): The Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Pakistan, Salem Mohammed Salem Al Zaabi, underscored the deep-rooted friendship and expanding strategic partnership between the two nations as he addressed a distinguished gathering in Islamabad to mark the UAE’s 54th National Day.

Welcoming Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, senior officials, diplomats, and dignitaries, the ambassador said the day commemorates the UAE’s historic unification in 1971 under the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

He noted that this year’s theme, “United,” reflects the enduring principles that have guided the UAE for more than five decades—unity, cohesion, tolerance, and shared purpose. “These values transformed the Union into a remarkable model of development and progress,” he said.

Ambassador Al Zaabi highlighted that the celebration coincides with the UAE’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of the Community, reaffirming the leadership’s commitment to a diverse society where more than 200 nationalities live and contribute harmoniously.

Reviewing the UAE’s trajectory of innovation and sustainable growth, he pointed to national frameworks such as We the UAE 2031 and UAE Centennial 2071, which continue to drive progress in clean energy, knowledge-based economies, and future-ready sectors. “These achievements reflect a comprehensive strategic vision rooted in excellence, investment in people, and sound resource management,” he added.

Emphasizing the UAE–Pakistan partnership, the envoy said both countries are bound by mutual respect, shared values, and a common aspiration for regional peace and development. He expressed the UAE’s strong commitment to expanding cooperation in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, sustainability, economic diversification, and agricultural innovation.

“In this spirit, we reaffirm our determination to broaden the horizons of our economic relations in a manner that truly reflects the depth of historic ties between our nations,” he said.

Expressing gratitude to the Government and people of Pakistan for their warm hospitality and enduring friendship, Ambassador Al Zaabi concluded by expressing hope for lasting peace, prosperity, and strengthened relations between the two countries.

“May our nations prosper, and may peace and harmony prevail around the world,” he said.