DUBAI: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Faisal Niaz Tirmizi visited Heriot-Watt University Dubai and delivered an insightful presentation on the historical and strategic relations between Pakistan and the UAE.
During his presentation, Ambassador Tirmizi highlighted Pakistan’s rich cultural and historical heritage, tracing its roots back to ancient civilizations such as the Indus Valley Civilization and the Gandhara Civilization. He emphasised that Pakistan with its vibrant history offers a unique cultural footprint in the modern world.
“With the fifth largest population globally, 68 percent of Pakistan’s citizens are under the age of 30, representing immense potential. Geographically, Pakistan boasts breathtaking landscapes being home to the world’s mightiest mountain ranges – the Himalayas, Karakoram and Hindu Kush. The country hosts five of the world’s fourteen peaks above 8,000 metres and over 100 peaks towering above 7,000 metres,” said the Ambassador.
Speaking on the Pakistan-UAE relations, Ambassador Tirmizi highlighted the deep-rooted bond between the two nations, spanning over 70 years. He paid tribute to the visionary leadership of the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum whose efforts laid the foundation for this enduring partnership.
Ambassador Tirmizi underscored the shared values, geographical proximity, cultural ties, and alignment on regional and global issues that strengthen the bilateral relationship. He noted that Pakistan was the first country to recognise the UAE and had sent its envoy six months before the nation’s formation in 1971. He further noted that Pakistani experts and professionals contributed significantly in the development of financial, banking, aviation and agriculture sectors of UAE.
With a trade volume of USD 10 billion annually and UAE Foreign Direct Investment in Pakistan estimated at USD 2.9 billion, the economic partnership continues to thrive. Additionally, 1.8 million Pakistanis living in the UAE serve as a vital bridge, contributing significantly to the prosperity of both nations.
The Ambassador encouraged students and faculty members to visit Pakistan, explore its stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures and rich cuisines. He also called upon Pakistani students to bring international friends along on their visits to promote Pakistan’s vibrant tourism potential and warm hospitality.
The interactive session ended with enthusiastic engagement from the students, who appreciated the insights shared by the Ambassador and expressed interest in further exploring Pakistan’s heritage and opportunities.
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