Hijjah 18, 1431, Nov 24, 2010, SPA -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari received here on Tuesday the visiting United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. During the meeting, they discussed aspects of UAE-Pakistan relations, joint cooperation in various areas with particular focus on the promotion of the bilateral trade and investment, rehabilitation of flood affected people and the regional situation. On his part, Sheikh Abdullah affirmed the keenness of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to boost relations with Pakistan in various domains for the best interest of the two friendly peoples. He lauded the steady and growing progress in the UAE-Pakistan relations under the prudent leadership of the two countries, according to a report of the UAE news agency "WAM." In an address during the reception, President Zardari said Pakistan attaches great importance to its cordial and friendly ties with the brotherly Muslim country - the UAE and desires to further cement the socio-economic and trade relations between the two countries. The President also appreciated the UAE's government and people for their generous support and assistance for the relief and rehabilitation of flood-affected people in Pakistan. ''The UAE has always been in the forefront to extend every possible support to the government and people of Pakistan in the hour of need." ' Meanwhile, the UAE Foreign Minister also called on Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervaiz Kayani and reviewed with him bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest. Upon arrival Islamabad yesterday, the UAE foreign minister held talks with Pakistan's Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani.
