Salman Shehbaz, the son of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, was seen taking part in the reception for United Arab Emirates(UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during his official visit to Pakistan, marking a rare public appearance since his father assumed office.
Salman Shehbaz has largely stayed out of the public and political spotlight in recent months, making his presence at the high-profile diplomatic event noteworthy.
Observers view his appearance as a symbolic gesture reflecting the longstanding personal and political ties between the Sharif family and the UAE’s ruling House of Nahyan.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan concluded his maiden one-day official visit to Pakistan on Friday after holding wide-ranging and substantive talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors.
Earlier in the day, President Al Nahyan arrived in Islamabad on an official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. As his aircraft entered Pakistani airspace, it was escorted by Pakistan Air Force fighter jets as a mark of respect.
Upon landing at Nur Khan Airbase, he was received by the prime minister, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, cabinet members, and senior government officials.
The welcome ceremony included the playing of the national anthems of both countries, a 21-gun salute, and a guard of honor presented by contingents of the Pakistan Armed Forces. Military and traditional bands performed, while children dressed in traditional attire lined the route, waving Pakistani and UAE flags.
President Al Nahyan was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising his advisers, members of the ruling family, federal ministers, and senior officials, including UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi.
According to the Foreign Office, this marked Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s first official visit to Pakistan as UAE president, although he had visited the country earlier this year on a private trip.
