Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) agreed to fast-track negotiations on their proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), as both sides reviewed progress and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral trade and investment ties. Ambassador of the UAE to Pakistan, Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi, called on Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan at his office here on Tuesday, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral economic ties and expediting progress on the Pakistan–UAE CEPA, read the statement. During the meeting, Jam Kamal underscored the historical, strategic, and people-to-people bonds between Pakistan and the UAE, describing the relationship as strong and time-tested across political, defence, and social spheres. He emphasised, however, that both countries are keen to translate this closeness into a more robust and balanced trade and investment partnership that reflects the true potential of bilateral relations. The commerce minister highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to create a more enabling environment for business and investment. Pakistan, UAE to launch pre-immigration clearance for passengers He noted that despite short-term challenges faced by the private sector due to stabilisation measures, the government remains focused on medium-term growth, export expansion, and regional connectivity, particularly through partnerships with Gulf countries. Al Zaabi appreciated Pakistan’s reform efforts and the professionalism of the technical teams engaged in CEPA negotiations. He lauded Pakistan’s market size, human capital, and strategic location, and conveyed the UAE’s strong interest in expanding cooperation in trade, logistics, ports, infrastructure, manufacturing, and investment facilitation. Both sides also discussed opportunities for joint ventures, trilateral cooperation in third-country markets, and enhanced collaboration in emerging regions such as Central Asia and Africa. The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to maintain close coordination and ensure the timely completion of the CEPA process.