Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates are on the cusp of finalising a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with technical negotiations nearing their conclusion, a development poised to significantly bolster economic cooperation between the two nations.
According to official information today, the commitment to expedite the agreement was reaffirmed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi, in the capital.
Minister Khan underscored the deep-rooted historical and strategic ties binding the two countries, stating a shared desire to transform this strong relationship into a more substantial and balanced trade and investment partnership that mirrors its true potential.
He detailed Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms, assuring the envoy of the government”s commitment to fostering a more favourable business environment. The minister acknowledged short-term difficulties for the private sector due to stabilisation policies but stressed a focus on medium-term growth, export expansion, and enhancing regional connectivity with Gulf states.
In his remarks, Ambassador Al Zaabi commended Pakistan’s reform initiatives and the proficiency of the technical teams involved in the CEPA discussions. He praised Pakistan’s considerable market size, skilled human resources, and strategic geographic position as key assets.
The Emirati diplomat conveyed his country’s keen interest in broadening cooperation across several sectors, including trade, logistics, port operations, infrastructure development, manufacturing, and the facilitation of investments.
Further discussions explored avenues for joint ventures and trilateral cooperation in third-country markets, particularly in emerging regions such as Central Asia and Africa.
The meeting concluded with a mutual resolve to maintain close coordination to ensure the timely completion of the CEPA, setting the stage for a new phase of mutually beneficial economic partnership.