FM Qureshi discusses Pakistani diaspora matters with Dubai ruler

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who arrived in Dubai on Thursday on a two-day official visit, called on Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

On his arrival, FM Qureshi was received by Pakistan’s Consul General in Dubai Ahmed Amjad Ali, senior embassy officials and senior UAE foreign ministry officials.

The foreign minister conveyed warm regards of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Sheikh Mohammed, who is also ruler of Dubai, according to the Foreign Office statement.

The UAE premier warmly reciprocated the sentiments, it added.

FM Qureshi exchanged views with the UAE prime minister on a range of issues of mutual interest and discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation between the two brotherly countries, possibilities of enhancing bilateral trade relations and promoting investment, in particular in the field of agriculture .

“The foreign minister also discussed matters pertaining to the welfare of Pakistani diaspora in the UAE,” said the communiqué.

The foreign minister's visit would be a continuation of the development and further strengthening of the high-level relations with Muslim countries, the FO said, adding that the welfare of Pakistan’s nationals abroad was among the top priorities of the government.

FM Qureshi, the FO said, requested Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to encourage the UAE’s business community to explore immense investment opportunities in Pakistan.

Wishing Dubai Expo 2020 a resounding success, he expressed gratitude to the UAE government in enabling Pakistan to participate effectively in the event.

“Pakistan and the UAE have close and historic fraternal ties,” read the official statement.

The foreign minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening and augmenting existing strong bilateral relations with the UAE, it added.

FM Qureshi would also meet the Pakistani community and interact with international media during his visit.