Pakistan and UAE Agree to Accelerate CEPA Negotiations
Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed to expedite negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
According to sources, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Salim Mohammed Salim Al Bawab Al Zaabi, met with Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan. During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral economic ties and to accelerate progress on the Pakistan-UAE CEPA.
Sources said that during the meeting, Jam Kamal emphasized the long-standing historical, strategic, and people-to-people relations between Pakistan and the UAE. He described the bilateral relationship as strong in political, defense, and social sectors and “meeting the test of time.” He also highlighted that both countries are keen to transform this close relationship into a more stable and balanced trade and investment partnership, reflecting the true potential of bilateral ties.
The Federal Minister for Commerce shed light on the ongoing economic reforms in Pakistan and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a more favorable environment for business and investment. He noted that while economic stabilization measures pose short-term challenges for the private sector, the government’s full focus remains on medium-term growth, export enhancement, and the promotion of regional connectivity, particularly through partnerships with Gulf countries.
Ambassador Al Zaabi appreciated Pakistan’s reform efforts and the professional expertise of the technical teams involved in the CEPA negotiations. He also praised Pakistan’s market size, human resources, and strategic geographical location, expressing the UAE’s strong interest in enhancing cooperation in trade, logistics, ports, infrastructure, manufacturing, and investment.
Both sides also discussed opportunities for joint projects, trilateral cooperation in third-country markets, and increased collaboration in emerging regions such as Central Asia and Africa.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to maintain close coordination and ensure the timely completion of the CEPA process.
