Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday praised outgoing UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Zaabi for his role in strengthening Pakistan-UAE relations during his nine-year tenure.

The Ambassador paid a farewell call on the Prime Minister, who congratulated him on the successful completion of his assignment and commended his efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation under the leadership of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The prime minister noted that both sides had recently advanced ties through high-level visits, the launch of the Pak-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission, and the signing of the Operational Duty Passport Holders Agreement.

He said he looked forward to welcoming the UAE President to Pakistan at the earliest.