ISLAMABAD: The Uni­­­­ted Arab Emi­rates (UAE) has assured full cooperation to facilitate issuance of visas for Pakistani citizens.

The assurance was gi­­ven by UAE Dep­uty Pri­me Minister and Minister of Inte­rior, Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during his meeting with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Abu Dhabi.

According to a statement issued by the interior ministry, the two sides discussed visa issues being faced by Pakistani citizens for the UAE. It was mutually agreed to ensure necessary steps to facilitate visas for Pakistani citizens, especially work visas.

The UAE minister of interior assured full co­­operation in this regard.

Mr Naqvi said that the fraternal relations with the UAE were a valuable asset for every Pakistani.

He emphasised that Pakistan desires to expand cooperation in all areas, including security.

He further stated that a large number of Pakistanis are playing a key role in strengthening the UAE’s economy.

“We want Pakistani citizens to be able to come to the UAE easily and easing visa policies will greatly benefit them,” he said.

They also exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in security, anti-narcotics, anti-smuggling, and the prevention of illegal immigration, as well as the exchange of technology.

During the meeting, historic relations betwe­­en the two friendly nations were also discussed and both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors.

Moreover, regional issues and sustainable peace in the region were also discussed. Both leaders also emphasised the importance of leveraging modern technology, particularly artificial intelligence, to address security challenges.

Mr Naqvi also visited the modern poli­cing and operations room of

Abu Dhabi for crime prevention and public safety.

UAE officials briefed him about the monitoring operations room. Mr Naqvi expressed keen interest in the advanced police monitoring system and praised the UAE’s policing model.

Published in Dawn, July 12th, 2025