Baseless Report in the Gulf News

Responding to questions, the spokesperson rejected the allegations contained in a recent editorial in the Gulf News as baseless and malicious.

Pakistan and UAE enjoy long standing, deep rooted and brotherly relations.  In the case of Expo 2020, Pakistan was committed to vote for Turkey which requested for Pakistan’s support as far as back in May 2011. The UAE entered the race much later. This fact was explained to the UAE leadership. It was also conveyed that if Turkey were to withdraw its candidature, Pakistan would not only support the UAE but also lobby for it. Consequently, when Turkey withdrew its candidature, Pakistan voted in favour of the UAE in the subsequent rounds of voting. Pakistan’s supportive efforts have been acknowledged by the UAE leadership, which has conveyed its appreciation at the highest level.

Pakistan has always stood by its friends and would continue to do so. Responsible newspapers are expected to ensure greater accuracy in their reporting.
 
December 16, 2013
Islamabad

Source:Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan - mofa.gov.pk/pr-details.php?prID=1604
Source:Baseless Gulf News editorial - gulfnews.com/opinions/editorials/expo-2020-vote-uae-deserves-answers-from-pakistan-and-afghanistan-1.1266977