DUBAI, Jan 22: Pakistan and Dubai have reaffirmed their desire to expand and enhance ties in various fields and expressed a firm resolve to step up efforts to that end. The bilateral ties were discussed on Sunday after President Musharraf condoled the death of Dubai ruler Shaikh Makhtoom bin Rashid with new ruler Shaikh Muhammad bin Rashid al-Makhtoom.

Soon after his arrival, the president drove straight to the palace to meet Shaikh Muhammad.

He offered his and nation’s heartfelt sorrow over the passing away of Shaikh Makhtoom and paid him tributes for enhancing Pakistan-UAE ties. He was a true friend of the country, the president said.

Later, President Musharraf and Shaikh Muhammad had an exclusive meeting. They discussed ways to enhance bilateral relationship and exchanged views on issues of common interest.

Foreign Minister Khurshid Kasuri told APP that the two leaders expressed the resolve to take trade and economic ties forward.

They also noted the recent sale of 26 per cent strategic shares of the PTCL to the UAE telecom giant Eitesalat.

The two leaders said the deal was a good omen and saw vast potential for inflow of more UAE investment into Pakistan.

Earlier, speaking to reporters, President General Musharraf said he would project economic realities and conducive investment climate of Pakistan during his meetings with leaders of world business community in Davos (Switzerland).

Before leaving for a tri-nation visit, the president said at the Chaklala Air Base that he would be meeting world leaders and international businessmen in Davos.

“During my meetings with world leaders, I will exchange views on bilateral and regional issues and discuss with them matters of mutual interest,” he said.

He is also scheduled to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos and interact with world business leaders.

The president will go to Norway after Dubai and then Davos.—APP