Pakistan and the UAE: An eternal bond of friendship and trust

Relations between Pakistan and the UAE are multifaceted and going well. “The economic content of our bilateral relationship has been strengthened over the years,” Gundar said. “In 2021-22, Pakistan-UAE bilateral trade has grown by 25.40% to US$10.6 billion compared to the previous year. During the said period, Pakistan’s exports were valued at US$1.84 billion compared to US$1.48 billion last year, In 2021-22, Pakistan’s imports stood at $8.75 billion, compared to $6.96 billion in the previous year.

Pakistan also benefited from participation in Expo 2020 Dubai. “During Expo 2020, the Pakistan Pavilion hosted more than 250 different economic and cultural events,” Gundar said. “A number of trade and investment conferences were also organized during Expo 2020, and the Pakistani side signed more than 100 memorandums of understanding on investment in various fields.” In fact, some positive factors in key industries such as tourism underline Pakistan’s growth from the World Expo gain obtained.

Under the theme of Pakistan: Hidden Treasures, the Expo 2020 Pakistan Pavilion showcases the country’s tourism destination, ancient history, heritage, cultural diversity and economic potential. “It attracted more than one million visitors and was one of the most visited pavilions at Expo 2020,” said Gondal. Expo 2020 is also a bridge that allows Pakistan to showcase its huge tourism potential to potential visitors from the UAE and the world, and organizes numerous tourism promotions and cultural/musical events.

“Visitors and tourists from all over the world attended these events and appreciated Pakistan’s cultural diversity and countless tourist attractions,” Gundar said. “We hope that more tourists will visit Pakistan in the coming years.”

The goodwill and support of Pakistan and the UAE has also been evident during the pandemic. “Following the resumption of business activities in the UAE, the embassy, ​​in coordination with the UAE government, has restarted flight operations from Pakistan to the UAE so that people stranded in Pakistan can return to work here,” Gundar said. “The host government was also asked to prioritize those Pakistani workers who have lost their jobs during the pandemic.”

The embassy also keeps the Pakistani community informed of the latest Covid-19 rules and regulations through the embassy’s social media accounts and website. The embassy’s connection with the Pakistani community is ongoing. “The embassy regularly organizes virtual Khuli Kachehris to address diaspora issues,” Gondal said, adding, “while a special help desk has been set up at the embassy to provide information on consular services. The embassy’s Community Welfare Unit visits prisons regularly, Ask about Pakistani prisoners. Embassy officials are in regular contact with the community to understand and help resolve their concerns.”

Gondal said the Pakistani diaspora will continue to play a key role in further strengthening the friendly relations between Pakistan and the UAE.

“Today, on behalf of myself and the Pakistani government, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all Pakistanis residing in the UAE as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of independence,” Gundar said. “This day reminds us of the sacrifices our ancestors made to achieve this independence. These sacrifices require us to work harder for the peace, prosperity and well-being of our great nation and its people.

“The Pakistani community in the UAE has been praised by the leaders of the UAE and Pakistan for their commitment and hard work for the progress and development of both countries. You are an asset to Pakistan and a strong bond of friendship between Pakistan and the UAE. I urge The Pakistani diaspora in the UAE continues to strive for excellence, working for the betterment of the UAE and Pakistan.

Long live Pakistan-UAE friendship! Long live Pakistan! Long live the UAE! “