Zardari Praises UAE for Its Global Leadership on Tolerance and Harmony

On Tuesday, President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan praised the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for its vision of tolerance, highlighting how the Gulf nation has positioned itself as a “leading global example of harmony among diverse communities.” This commendation came during a four-day official visit to Abu Dhabi, where President Zardari met with UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan.

The president’s statement emphasized the importance of promoting dialogue, inclusivity, and peaceful coexistence. He highlighted that this meeting underscored the Emirati leadership’s visionary contributions. Specifically, President Zardari commended the UAE’s national vision for tolerance and human fraternity, noting how it has positioned the country as a leading example in fostering harmonious relations among diverse communities.

President Zardari also recognized the UAE’s success in promoting unity and mutual respect among over 200 nationalities. These values strongly resonated with Pakistan’s own commitment to interfaith harmony, social inclusion, and respect for cultural and religious diversity, as outlined in the country’s Constitution and societal traditions.

During his visit, President Zardari also met with First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE. The president expressed gratitude for AD Ports Group Managing Director Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, who paid a courtesy call on President Zardari.

Al Shamisi’s remarks acknowledged the group’s “long-term investment” and growing role in Pakistan’s maritime and logistics sector. They highlighted AD Ports Group’s investments at Karachi Port, which enhances port capacity, efficiency, and regional competitiveness. Both sides agreed to support the expansion and modernization of port infrastructure as a key element of economic cooperation.

During his official visit, President Zardari also expressed appreciation for AD Ports Group’s collaboration on digital and customs facilitation initiatives aimed at improving trade efficiency. The statement indicated that both parties agreed on the establishment of an AD Ports Group representative office in Islamabad.

Zardari’s four-day visit is part of a broader review of bilateral ties with the UAE, including trade and economic partnership, defense and security cooperation, as well as people-to-people interactions. The visit also follows President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s recent brief visit to Pakistan, reiterating strong brotherly bonds between the two nations and reaffirming their commitment to forging a mutually rewarding partnership.