ISLAMABAD, 29th April, 2025 (WAM) -- The United Arab Emirates and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan convened the second session of the Joint Consular Committee in Islamabad to explore avenues for enhancing cooperation across various consular fields, with the aim of safeguarding and advancing the interests of the peoples of both nations.

The meeting was co-chaired by Faisal Eissa Lutfi, Assistant Undersecretary for Consular Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Shehryar Akbar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary for the Middle East at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan.

Discussions during the session focused on a range of consular matters, follow-up mechanisms, and initiatives to strengthen joint consular cooperation. Both sides emphasized the importance of delivering exceptional consular services that are citizen-centric and responsive to the evolving needs and aspirations of the UAE and Pakistani communities.

In his remarks, Faisal Lutfi underscored that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, and Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, reflects the UAE's steadfast commitment to advancing bilateral relations. He noted that this aligns with the directives of the UAE's wise leadership, which attaches paramount importance to strengthening ties of friendship and strategic cooperation with brotherly and friendly nations, and expanding collaboration across a broad range of sectors.

Lutfi further stated that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding marks a significant milestone in the development of consular relations between the two countries. The establishment of the Consular Committee is intended to elevate the efficiency, quality, and inclusivity of consular services, thereby contributing to the protection of citizens' interests, supporting sustainable development goals, and fostering greater prosperity for both nations.

He reaffirmed that the UAE-Pakistan relationship is anchored in a long-standing history of mutual respect and shared interests, which has enabled the two countries to develop a strategic partnership spanning political, economic, social, and consular spheres.