RAHIM YAR KHAN: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday discussed bilateral and regional matters, apart from ways to further expand Pakistan-UAE ties with UAE President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

The President of United Arab Emirates is here on a private visit.

Prime Minister Sharif said Pakistan and the UAE have always maintained cordial relations and both sides value their bilateral cooperation.

The prime minister, during his meeting with Shiekh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, thanked the UAE government for extending help to the Pakistani diaspora residing in the emirate.

Prime Minister Sharif said the large Pakistani community in the UAE was serving as a bridge between the two countries.

The premier also extended good wishes on his behalf and on behalf of the people of Pakistan for Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and the people of the UAE.