Pakistan, UAE Vow to Strengthen Strategic Ties Amid Growing Cooperation
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s envoy to the UAE, highlighted the deep-rooted and multifaceted relationship between Pakistan and the UAE during a dialogue session at the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
The session, titled “Bilateral Relations Between the UAE and Pakistan,” was moderated by Mr. Nasser Al Banna and attended by researchers, policymakers, and analysts. Ambassador Tirmizi was warmly welcomed by H.E. Dr. Sultan Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director General of ECSSR, as both sides explored ways to enhance cooperation between the two brotherly nations.
Strong Historical Ties, Growing Economic Partnership
Ambassador Tirmizi emphasized the longstanding ties between Pakistan and the UAE, rooted in shared values, cultural connections, and strong people-to-people bonds. “Our relations are built on mutual respect, increasing economic interdependence, and the invaluable contributions of 1.7 million Pakistanis living and working in the UAE,” he said.
He noted recent high-level engagements, including visits by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE’s Foreign Minister, to Pakistan. The successful conclusion of the 12th Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission was also highlighted as a sign of growing bilateral momentum.
Regional Security and Middle East Stability
On regional security, Ambassador Tirmizi reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to working with the UAE in countering threats from non-state actors. Drawing on Pakistan’s experience in combating terrorism, he expressed Islamabad’s readiness to collaborate further for regional stability.
Regarding the Middle East, he called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and praised the UAE’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. He stressed that inclusive, dialogue-based diplomacy is essential for resolving regional conflicts.
Indus Waters Treaty: No Unilateral Changes
Responding to a question on the Indus Waters Treaty, Ambassador Tirmizi clarified that the 1960 agreement, brokered by the World Bank, cannot be suspended unilaterally. He referenced the recent Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling in Pakistan’s favor, which affirmed that India cannot withdraw from the treaty on its own.
Economic Opportunities and Future Collaboration
The ambassador pointed to increasing Emirati investments in Pakistan and identified untapped potential in logistics, ports, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure. He highlighted Karachi Port’s development and Pakistan’s strategic location as key advantages for deeper economic collaboration.
Additionally, he called for stronger ties between think tanks, universities, and research institutions in both countries. “Joint research and knowledge exchanges can enhance our bilateral dialogue and help tackle global challenges together,” he added.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, reflecting strong interest from Emirati experts in further strengthening Pakistan-UAE relations.