Increase in trade ties discussed with UAE delegation: FM Qureshi

ISLAMABAD: Following a meeting with a high-level delegation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that increase in trade volume, foreign investment and other issues came under discussion in the meeting.   

While briefing the media, Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that the delegation led by Minister of State and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company Dr Sultan Aljaber visited Pakistan on the directive of UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed.

He said that they discussed various aspects to boost trade volume between the two countries.  Installation of a state-of-the-art LNG terminal, oil refinery, food processing industry and other issues were also discussed during the meeting.

Saudi Arabia has placed no condition in exchange for bailout package: Qureshi

Major reshuffles of diplomats

The foreign minister alleged that the previous government made politically-motivated hiring in the foreign office. He said the incumbent government has decided to appoint seasoned ambassadors in different countries.

He said that they have decided to appoint new ambassadors in the US, the UK , Saudi Arabia and other countries.

“To make foreign policy stronger and robust, it has been decided to appoint professional diplomats in key foreign capitals,” he said.

The minister said Nafees Zakaria who is currently serving as Pakistan High Commissioner to Malaysia will be posted to London as Pakistan’s High Commissioner.

“Raza Sher Tarar will be appointed Pakistan High Commissioner to Ottawa, Canada. Raja Ali Ijaz is being posted as Pakistan High Commissioner to Saudi Arabia,” he said.

Dr Asad Mjeed will be appointed ambassador to the US, Hamid Asghar to Morocco and Shahryar Akbar Khan will be appointed in Serbia, he added.

On the prime minister’s upcoming visit to China, the FM said Imran Khan will call on senior Chinese leaders besides participating and delivering a keynote address at international expo.