ISLAMABAD: Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, has declared that the security of the United Arab Emirates forms an integral part of Pakistan’s own security framework.
This affirmation came during a high-level meeting in Abu Dhabi on Monday with His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor of the UAE.
The discussions focused on deepening bilateral cooperation in key areas, including economic collaboration, investment, and security.
Both sides exchanged detailed views on evolving regional developments and stressed the need for sustained coordination to foster peace and stability across the region.
Field Marshal Asim Munir conveyed deep appreciation to the UAE government for its decades-long investments and unwavering support to Pakistan’s economy and security apparatus.
He highlighted how such assistance underscores the profound historical bonds between the two brotherly nations.
The army chief praised the UAE leadership’s constructive contributions to Pakistan’s economic and social progress over the years.
Pakistan’s bilateral trade with the UAE has shown robust growth, reaching approximately $10.1 billion in fiscal year 2024-25, marking a 20.24 percent increase from the previous period.
This surge reflects ongoing efforts to expand economic linkages, with Pakistan exporting around $2.1 billion worth of goods while importing nearly $8 billion.
The UAE has emerged as one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners in the Middle East, driven by investments in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, ports, aviation, agriculture, minerals, and railways.
Public and private sectors from the UAE have channeled more than $10 billion into Pakistan over the past two decades, bolstering areas like communications, tourism, information technology, oil and gas, housing, banking, and real estate.
Major Emirati entities, including Etihad Airways, Emirates, Emaar, and Dubai Islamic Bank, maintain a strong presence, positively impacting bilateral perceptions.
Recent initiatives under Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council have facilitated multi-billion-dollar agreements, covering energy, port operations, logistics, mining, aviation, and banking.
The two countries are advancing toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, aimed at doubling trade volumes to $16-20 billion by removing barriers and harmonizing standards.
Such pacts promise enhanced market access, joint ventures, and sustainable growth for both economies.
On the security front, the meeting reinforced mutual commitments amid shared regional challenges.
Pakistan’s military leadership has consistently positioned the nation as a reliable partner in Gulf security dynamics.
Historical ties include defense cooperation through training programs, joint exercises, and strategic consultations.
The UAE’s support during Pakistan’s economic difficulties, including financial deposits and assistance in averting balance-of-payments crises, has been instrumental.
These gestures have helped stabilize foreign exchange reserves and supported macroeconomic recovery.
Field Marshal Asim Munir reiterated Pakistan’s firm resolve to advance joint efforts across all domains.
He emphasized that enhanced partnership serves the vital interests of both peoples while contributing to broader regional prosperity.
The affirmation of UAE security as intertwined with Pakistan’s own reflects a strategic calculus rooted in geography, shared threats, and longstanding alliances.
Analysts note that this posture aligns with Pakistan’s evolving foreign policy, balancing geoeconomics with security imperatives.
Continued high-level engagements, including reciprocal visits by leaders, signal deepening trust.
The recent interaction builds on prior diplomatic momentum, including UAE presidential visits and high-level receptions in Pakistan.
Experts anticipate further agreements in defense and economic spheres, potentially elevating bilateral relations to new heights.
This partnership remains pivotal for stability in South Asia and the Gulf, where mutual interests converge on counterterrorism, economic resilience, and regional harmony.
As both nations navigate complex global landscapes, their collaboration stands as a model of brotherly solidarity and strategic interdependence.