Islamabad, 17 October 2022 (TDI): Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, called on the President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today.
During the meeting, the President urged the need for early finalization of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE to enable Pakistan to increase its exports.
The President’s remarks on bilateral cooperation
Speaking on bilateral cooperation with the Ambassador-designate, he said that Pakistan must also explore new avenues in economic diplomacy and investments with UAE.
Bilateral trade between Pakistan and UAE could be further increased from its current level of USD 10.6 billion to make it proportionate with the countries’ excellent relations and close geographic proximity.
The President highlighted the huge potential for cooperation between the two countries in renewable energy, commercial, industrial, infrastructure development, and health sectors.
He noted that the 1.6 million strong Pakistani diaspora in the UAE was an asset and played a significant role in the progress and development of the two countries.
Moreover, he said that the remittances sent by the Pakistani diaspora stood at 5.814 billion USD in 2021-22, which immensely helped Pakistan to overcome its foreign exchange requirements.
Remarks on UAE’s support during floods and at IMF and FATF
The President conveyed his gratitude to the UAE government for assisting the flood victims in Pakistan, which included 57 humanitarian assistance flights and two ships carrying relief goods from UAE.
He appreciated the support of UAE to Pakistan at FATF and IMF and the deposits made by the Government of UAE to the tune of 2 billion USD to enhance Pakistan’s liquidity and foreign exchange reserves.
While expressing his satisfaction over the Foreign Direct Investment of 2.9 billion USD made by UAE in Pakistan, he said there was a need to increase this investment in the coming years.
Linkages of the Pakistani diaspora with online higher education institutions
The President asked the Ambassador-designate to create digital linkages of the Pakistani diaspora with the online higher education institutions of Pakistan like Allama Iqbal Open University and Virtual University.
This would help them improve their digital skills and take high-value courses to enhance their capacity and skills to improve their income.
He especially highlighted the DigiSkills Training program of the Prime Minister, which could be promoted among the diaspora to equip them with the requirements of developed economies.
The President also advised the envoy to sensitize the UAE leadership concerning increasing cases of Islamophobia in Indian society and their pursuit of Hindutva, endangering the lives of minorities, especially Muslims.
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