Top Pakistani envoy meets UAE media chief to boost collaboration
Joint efforts to promote positive narratives
DUBAI: Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s envoy to the United Arab Emirates, on Monday met with Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary General of the UAE Media Council, in Dubai to discuss strengthening media cooperation between the two nations.
Ambassador Tirmizi emphasised the historically close and brotherly relationship between Pakistan and the UAE, noting the importance of longstanding diplomatic and social connections.
He highlighted the Pakistani expatriate community’s contributions to the development and economic success of the UAE.
Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s cultural richness and acknowledged the positive role of the Pakistani community in the UAE. He recognised the tourism appeal of Pakistan’s natural landscapes, especially in the northern regions.
Focus on media collaboration
The discussions focused on identifying new areas of partnership within the media sector. Both parties shared the goal of enhancing people-to-people contact and fostering deeper understanding through improved media representation.
The meeting explored opportunities for collaborative media projects that can present positive narratives about each country’s development, traditions, and societal progress. These initiatives would aim to counter misinformation and strengthen bilateral goodwill.
Cultural and strategic alignment
Al Shehhi reiterated the UAE Media Council’s intention to support media initiatives that reflect the cultural and strategic alignment of the two nations. He noted the potential for increased content sharing and co-productions, especially in showcasing tourism, education, and technological advancements.
The conversation also touched on media training programmes, journalist exchanges, and joint forums that could be facilitated to build capacity and deepen expertise on both sides.
Tourism and cultural focus
Both officials agreed that highlighting Pakistan’s tourism sector, particularly its mountainous northern regions, could boost economic opportunities while encouraging intercultural engagement. The role of media in shaping international perceptions and fostering sustainable tourism was acknowledged as a shared interest.
The UAE side also recognised Pakistan’s diverse heritage and expressed openness to organising media campaigns and documentaries that could spotlight cultural and historical sites, festivals, and local industries.
Ongoing diplomatic engagement
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to continue dialogue and set practical steps toward implementing joint media initiatives. It underscored the importance of leveraging the influence of media to advance diplomatic, economic, and social goals in a rapidly evolving regional landscape.
Further consultations are expected between media entities from both countries to operationalise the proposals discussed during the meeting.