By Uzma Sahar 
In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed multiple landmark agreements, including a Memorandum of Understanding on Mutual Exemption of Entry Visa Requirements. This move is expected to boost people-to-people connectivity and ease mobility for citizens of both countries, fostering greater economic and cultural exchange.
The agreements were finalized during the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in Abu Dhabi. The session was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, alongside his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The gathering reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and set new directions for future collaboration.
A key highlight of the meeting was the signing of an MoU on the Establishment of a Joint Task Force to Promote Investments, along with an Agreement focused on Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Economy. These agreements demonstrate a shared commitment to technological innovation and mutual prosperity.
In the lead-up to the JMC, a working group meeting was held under Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa and UAE Minister of State Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, where sector-specific priorities were discussed.
Beyond trade and investment, the Commission laid out a comprehensive framework to enhance cooperation across sectors including aviation, culture, energy, food security, climate action, railways, defence, education, and healthcare. A protocol was also signed to ensure effective coordination through sectoral working groups and reciprocal official visits.
The two nations also reaffirmed their mutual resolve to enhance regional stability and strengthen institutional mechanisms through deeper inter-governmental engagement. It was agreed that the 13th JMC session will be hosted in Pakistan, with dates to be finalized through diplomatic channels.