UAE team, Dar discuss investment in aviation, maritime sectors

ISLAMABAD: New investments in Pakistan by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were explored and discussed here Tuesday when a high-ranking UAE delegation led by Sheikh Ahmad Dalmook Al-Maktoum called on Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar.

The official sources told The News that the two leaders had extensive discussions about the UAE investment in Pakistan’s maritime and aviation sectors. Senator Ishaq Dar, while welcoming the delegation reminded the close brotherly ties of the two countries and the proximity of the views of the leadership of Pakistan and the UAE. He spoke of the opportunities and conducive ambience for the investment, especially in the maritime and aviation sectors. Dar recalled that the government has established the Special Investment Facilitation Council which is facilitating, fast-track foreign investment and its protection. The SIFC, headed by the Prime Minister of Pakistan includes significant federal and provincial ministers, secretaries and high-level representatives from the armed forces. The SIFC has helped in encouraging foreign investment a great deal, Dar said.

Sheikh Ahmad Dalmook Al-Maktoum appreciated the effective useful steps taken by Pakistan to enhance investment. He assured that his country and investors would benefit from the atmosphere of investment and the assurances by the officials. Maktoum expressed hope that they would also explore other sectors since the host government is determined to provide facilitation for such ventures. The UAE delegation would also hold meetings with other officials before returning home, sources added.