Dr Muhammad Khan (IR Expert): United Arab Emirates has been great friend of Pakistan. Being a close friend of Pakistan UAE always provided financial assistance to Pakistan whenever needed and is one of the largest donors of humanitarian assistance during difficult times. A huge number of Pakistanis are residing in the UAE and contributing to the economy. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to UAE was in continuation of dialogue with brotherly nation to further cement the robust relations. It is very important for us to continue engaging with friendly nations like United Arab Emirates. The visit remains very fruitful and top leadership of both countries discussed ways and means to further enhance bilateral relations, especially in the fields of trade, investment and energy. The invitation of Prime Minister to UAE businessmen is very beneficial for both countries as Pakistan has always been a strong and large consumer market to investors especially in energy, infrastructure, e-commerce, agro-based industry and IT sectors.  The investment by UAE businessmen will help Pakistan to stabilize the ailing economy.

Hafiz Shafiq Kashif (Chair, Middle East Committee, FCCI): The relations between Pakistan and UAE have a very long-standing history. UAE being a time tested friend of Pakistan always helped us during thick and thin. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif is very keen to consolidate the relationship with UAE and that’s the reason he invited businessmen to explore investment avenues in Pakistan. For UAE businessmen there are a lot of opportunities for investing in diverse fields including agriculture and food products. We hope the trade and investment relations between both brotherly nations will grow and will help Pakistan to stabilize the economy.