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Islamabad: The visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Pakistan has created a stir in the corridors of power. At first glance it seemed that this was a diplomatic visit, but as the information came to light, the picture started looking completely different. The visit was neither official nor did it indicate preparations for any major agreement. On the contrary, the question began to arise: why was everything so unusual, from the welcome to the timing of the meetings?
As per diplomatic protocol, the arrival of any foreign head of state is welcomed by the president of the host country. But this time it did not happen. Asif Ali Zardari neither reached the airbase nor was present for the meeting. Government sources say that this visit was completely private; hence, the presence of the president was not necessary. However, opponents argue that the government and the media tried to give it an official color after its arrival, which created confusion.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Sheikh Mohammed met at Noor Khan Airbase. This meeting did not last more than five minutes. A handshake, exchange of a few words, a click of the camera, and then farewell.
No joint statement, no press note, no agreement. This is why the opposition is calling this meeting a mere “photo-op.”
The most important fact was that Sheikh Mohammed clearly refused to go to the capital, Islamabad. The entire trip was limited to Rawalpindi and surrounding areas. According to security agencies, the real motive was to attend the family function of Army Chief General Asim Munir. The event took place at the Army House, where the UAE president was present for several hours.
This is not the first time that the army has played a heavy role in Pakistan's foreign diplomacy. But this time the picture was clear. Neither the External Affairs Ministry had a clear briefing, nor the Prime Minister's Office had a clear agenda. The Ministry of External Affairs initially talked about trade and investment but later backed down.
This entire incident once again showed that the centralization of foreign policy in Pakistan is not around the civilian government but around the army.
According to sources, there was a discussion between the UAE president and Asim Munir regarding the proposed International Stabilization Force on the issue of Gaza. But this conversation was informal, and no official record of it was shared.
There is a possibility of the Army Chief visiting the UAE in the next few weeks, where this topic can be discussed in depth.
The government is trying to portray it as successful, but the results on the ground are zero.
Political wisdom says that the purpose of the visit was not to strengthen formal relations but to maintain personal and military ties.
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