ISLAMABAD -UNS The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday agreed to roll over the existing $2 billion debt in much-needed financial help that would stabilise Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves.
In addition to announcing the rollover, the Gulf country announced a loan of $1 billion for the South Asian country. The development would calm the jittery markets and strengthen the rupee against the US dollar.
The announcement was made by UAE President Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al-Nahyan at a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif who arrived in the Arab country on a two-day official visit earlier in the day. Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed welcomed the Pakistani premier to Abu Dhabi and wished progress and prosperity for Pakistan. He praised the historical relations between the two nations and the valuable contributions made by the Pakistani community in the UAE.
The prime minister thanked the UAE president for inviting him to the brotherly country. The two leaders discussed the fraternal relations between Pakistan and the UAE; explored ways and means to further strengthen these ties, especially in the fields of trade, investment and energy.
PM Shehbaz invited the president of the UAE for a state visit to Pakistan, to which he agreed. The dates will be decided through diplomatic channels.
