PM Shehbaz assures govt's support for safety, facilitation of international mountaineers

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a meeting held on Thursday with Sheikha Asma Al Thani, praised Pakistan’s status as a top destination for mountaineers and adventurers, reaffirming the government’s full support and facilitation for international climbers.

Sheikha Asma, who recently became the first Qatari woman to scale Nanga Parbat, received a warm welcome from the prime minister, who applauded her courage and determination in achieving such a remarkable feat.

Nanga Parbat, often referred to as the “Killer Mountain,” is one of the world’s most daunting peaks, and her successful summit marks a historic milestone for both Qatar and the broader Gulf region.

The prime minister commended Sheikha Asma not only for her mountaineering achievement but also for being a powerful source of motivation for women and young girls around the world. He highlighted how her accomplishments promote gender empowerment through adventure sports and high-altitude climbing, areas traditionally dominated by men.

In acknowledgment of her contribution to showcasing Pakistan’s natural beauty and inspiring global audiences, the prime minister officially appointed her as a Brand Ambassador for Pakistan’s Mountains and Tourism.

Shehbaz Sharif also expressed his gratitude to the Qatari climber for choosing Pakistan’s iconic peaks and emphasized her role in drawing international attention to the country’s stunning landscapes and the challenges of high-altitude climbing.

He took the opportunity to highlight the essential work done by Pakistani porters and guides, whose expertise and dedication are instrumental in enabling climbers from across the globe to pursue their mountain expeditions.

Reflecting on the strong friendship between Pakistan and Qatar, the prime minister noted that Sheikha Asma’s achievement mirrors shared values of resilience, ambition, and bravery found in both nations.

He conveyed his interest in expanding bilateral collaboration, particularly in the areas of youth engagement, adventure tourism, and sports development.

The premier praised Sheikha Asma’s role as Vice President of the Gender Equality Commission, acknowledging her efforts to promote equal opportunities on international platforms.

With nine of the world’s fourteen 8,000-meter peaks already conquered, Sheikha Asma was wished continued success in her mission to climb them all.

She expressed her gratitude for the hospitality shown to her in Pakistan and fondly recalled her recent expedition to Nanga Parbat.

Sheikha Asma extended special praise to the Pakistani porters and guides who supported her journey and shared her admiration for K2, calling it the most beautiful and well-rounded mountain she had ever climbed.

PM Shehbaz concluded the meeting by encouraging Sheikha Asma to return to Pakistan for future climbs and further exploration, wishing her the best in her ongoing efforts to inspire global youth, especially women, to pursue their goals with determination and courage.