COAS discusses Pak-UAE ties with Dubai ruler

DUBAI: Chief of the Army Staff Qamar Javed Bajwa met United Arab Emirates' Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Shaikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the Zabeel Palace in Dubai on Monday.

General Bajwa and Sheikh Mohammad discussed relations between Pakistan and UAE and a number of issues pertaining to the military and the current situation in the region. Deputy Ruler of Dubai Shaikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum was also present during the meeting.

The Pakistan army chief concluded his two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday. The army chief praised the development witnessed by the UAE in different fields. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr Anwar Mohammad Gargash, President Dubai Civil Aviation Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director General Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleman also attended the meeting.

A well-placed source informed The News that the Pakistan army chief's visit to the UAE was very critical for the relations between Pakistan and the UAE. Many defence analysts said that the Pakistan army chief's visit is to counter the Indian influence on Middle East.

Diplomatic sources told The News that Pakistanis had been witnessing some critical issues relating to the visa of Arab countries not only ordinary visitors but also diplomatic officials. Pakistan officials expressed the hope that General Bajwa's visit would help reduce stress and anxiety among Pakistan and Arab countries.