President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the prestigious Nishan-e-Pakistan upon Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during a ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, federal ministers, and high-ranking officials. Notable attendees included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, First Lady Asifa Bhutto Zardari, and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
Upon his arrival in Islamabad, Sheikh Khaled received a warm welcome. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally greeted him and held an umbrella for the distinguished guest. A guard of honor was presented at the Prime Minister’s House, while Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar was also present to receive him at Nur Khan Airbase. The crown prince was accompanied by a high-profile delegation comprising ministers, senior officials, and business leaders. Floral bouquets were presented as a symbol of hospitality.
Pakistan and UAE Sign Five Cooperation Agreements
Pakistan and the UAE formalized five agreements to enhance collaboration in various sectors, including banking, railways, mining, and infrastructural investment.
Sheikh Khaled and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif oversaw the signing ceremony, where officials from both nations exchanged pre-signed documents for agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
Among the key agreements:
- Banking Cooperation: Secretary Finance Imdadullah Bosal and CEO of IHC Syed Basar Shueb exchanged documents.
- Mining Sector Collaboration: Officials signed an agreement to strengthen ties in the mining industry.
- Railway Development: CEO of Pakistan Railways Amir Ali Baloch and CEO of Etihad Rail Shadi Malik formalized two MoUs to enhance railway cooperation.
- Infrastructure Investment: Secretary Board of Investment Nadeem Chaudhary and CEO AD Ports Capt Muhammad Juma Al Shamisi exchanged documents for infrastructural development.
The signing ceremony was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, federal cabinet members, and members of the UAE delegation.
