UAE and Pakistan Sign Visa Exemption Agreement for Diplomatic Passports — A Major Step Towards Stronger Bilateral Relations
In a notable development that reflects the strengthening of Pakistan-UAE relations, Ishaq Dar, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, announced that the UAE and Pakistan have signed a visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports. The announcement came during the conclusion of the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
This visa exemption agreement means that government officials and diplomats from both countries will now be able to travel without the need for a visa, making official visits and bilateral coordination more seamless and efficient.
A Deepening Strategic Partnership
The UAE and Pakistan share a long-standing, multifaceted relationship rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and regional cooperation. The Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), which meets periodically to review and enhance collaboration, serves as a key institutional platform for evaluating progress and setting new goals.
During the 12th session, high-level delegations from both nations discussed strategic cooperation in several key areas, including:
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Trade & Investment
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Energy & Infrastructure
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Information Technology
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Human Resource Development
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Regional Security & Development Initiatives
Ishaq Dar stated:
“The JMC is an important step in further deepening strategic, economic, and development cooperation between our two brotherly countries.”
The Pakistani Community in the UAE
The UAE is home to one of the largest overseas Pakistani communities, with over 1.7 million Pakistanis living and working in the country. This includes a diverse mix of professionals, laborers, businesspeople, and entrepreneurs who play a vital role in the UAE’s development and Pakistan’s remittance economy.
In 2023 alone, more than 64,000 Pakistanis secured jobs in the UAE, according to official data. This growing migration is a reflection of strong economic linkages and the demand for Pakistani talent and labor across sectors like construction, healthcare, IT, hospitality, and logistics.
The new visa exemption for officials is expected to further smoothen administrative procedures and pave the way for faster bilateral projects, development initiatives, and diplomatic engagements.
Why This Agreement Matters
This visa exemption is not just a symbolic gesture—it has real, practical implications:
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Enhances trust and diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and the UAE.
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Saves time and resources for government officials, enabling quicker decision-making and collaboration.
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Strengthens strategic alliances in areas like security, trade, and regional development.
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Opens doors for more frequent joint ventures and high-level visits, further deepening bilateral understanding.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger Future Together
The UAE and Pakistan have expressed mutual interest in not only maintaining their strong ties but also expanding cooperation into future-forward sectors like green energy, digital transformation, AI, and innovation. With the UAE's vision for economic diversification and Pakistan’s youthful, tech-savvy population, there is immense potential for a transformative partnership.
This visa agreement is a symbol of trust and mutual respect, and a stepping stone toward a future of closer political, economic, and social collaboration.
As global alliances evolve, agreements like the one signed between Pakistan and the UAE highlight the importance of regional cooperation and strategic diplomacy. It is a promising move that showcases the commitment of both nations to build stronger bridges for mutual growth, prosperity, and development.
Stay tuned as we continue to cover developments in this growing partnership that touches millions of lives across both borders .www.dbmsbusiness.com
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