ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif will visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) early next month and this will be his first foreign visit this year.
Sources said The News The Prime Minister will be the chief guest at the World Government Summit hosted by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, here on Friday. Pakistan has formally accepted the invitation extended by the Government of the United Arab Emirates regarding the summit.
Last year, many world leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the same conference. He is likely to attend this year as well but there is no confirmation from New Delhi about the number.
Diplomatic observers believe that a meeting between Shehbaz and Modi is unlikely due to the current tension between Pakistan and India. However, Shahbaz will hold sideline meetings with some of the world leaders attending the summit, including UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The summit is scheduled to take place on February 11 and will last for three days. According to diplomatic sources, the summit is being convened next month under the theme of ‘Shaping Future Governments’.
The event will bring together governments, international organizations, thought leaders and private sector leaders from around the world to promote international cooperation and identify innovative solutions to future challenges, which will ultimately influence the next generation of governments. And will empower.
Sources indicated that Shahbaz will be among the key speakers at the summit. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will also address the event. Sources say that federal ministers will accompany him on this trip to deal with economic departments.