Imran Khan thanks UAE for pardoning hundreds of Pakistani prisoners

The Pakistani Prime Minister praised the UAE's Ramadan initiative

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, pictured with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed during a visit to Dubai, has thanked the UAE for pardoning 572 Pakistani prisoners.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has thanked UAE rulers for pardoning hundreds of Pakistani prisoners in the spirit of Ramadan.

UAE President Sheikh Khalifa ordered the release of more than 3,000 inmates - including 572 who hail from Pakistan - ahead of the start of the holy month.

The UAE traditionally grants a large number of prisoners their freedom during the period, to give them and their families a chance of a fresh start.

The President of the UAE also pledged to settle the debts of the thousands of inmates who were freed.

It is a warm gesture that impacts on lives both at home and abroad - and has been recognised by Pakistan's leader.

Mr Khan extended his gratitude to UAE President Sheikh Khalifa and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, for their generosity.

A statement issued by the office of the Pakistani Prime Minister stated that Pakistan appreciates the initiative, which would contribute to further enhancing friendly bilateral relations.

Mr Khan has sought to build on the friendship between the UAE and Pakistan since winning power last August.

The former cricket star turned politician met with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi in February, ahead of an appearance at the World Government Summit in Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed greeted Mr Khan at Dubai International Airport, where he received a guard of honour.

The two men discussed ways to bolster ties between the two nations.

At the World Government Summit, the Pakistani leader revealed that the rise in prominence of countries such as the UAE had inspired him to swap the spots field for the cabinet.

During his speech, he said bright times are ahead for his country.

More than one million Pakistanis reside in the UAE, the second largest national contingent in the country, after India.