Doha (Web Desk/Agencies): Pakistan and Qatar on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to deepening strategic bilateral ties, underscoring the importance of shared economic goals and regional stability.
According to a Prime Minister’s (PM) Office press release, the bilateral relations were discussed in the delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, followed by a one-on-one meeting encompassing a wide array of bilateral interests.
The leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of Pakistan-Qatar relations, exploring potential avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, potential areas of investment, energy, and culture.
Both the leaders also discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest particularly the ongoing genocidal war by Israel against innocent Palestinian people and escalation of tensions in the region.
PM Shehbaz, who is on a two-day official visit, commended Qatar’s stance on Palestinian issue expressed by the Amir during the 79th UNGA held on 24 September 2024.
He appreciated mediation efforts by Qatar for immediate ceasefire and unimpeded supply of humanitarian aid.
PM Shehbaz also invited Amir of Qatar to visit Pakistan.
Earlier today, PM Shehbaz met his Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani wherein they discussed avenues to further strengthen bilateral relations, particularly focusing on enhancing cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, energy, and cultural exchange.
According to a Prime Minister’s PM Office press release, in the “very extensive and productive” meeting, two leaders agreed on the importance of continuing high-level exchanges to promote understanding, foster cooperation, and identify new areas for growth.
PM Shehbaz acknowledged Qatar’s contributions to Pakistan’s economic growth and expressed his gratitude for Qatar’s continued support in various sectors.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to deepening economic ties and emphasized the potential for expanded collaboration.
PM Shehbaz also thanked his Qatari counterpart for hosting a large number of Pakistani diaspora acting as a human bridge between the two brotherly countries.
The two leaders discussed global and regional issues, underscoring the need for peaceful solutions and mutual cooperation to address challenges.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also commended Qatar’s principled stance on the Gaza conflict and its persistent efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
He praised Qatar’s humanitarian initiatives and diplomatic engagements aimed at resolving the conflict and easing the suffering of the people of Gaza, and also the role as a facilitator of dialogue and an advocate for a just resolution to regional conflicts, recognizing its efforts as vital to promoting lasting peace in the Middle East.
The Qatari prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s strategic importance in the region and expressed his enthusiasm for strengthening ties with Pakistan in line with Qatar’s vision for economic growth and regional stability. He also showed his resolve to work with Pakistan for peace in the region including Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz extended an invitation to Qatari investors to explore Pakistan’s diverse economic sectors, including agriculture, information technology, and tourism.
He outlined the Pakistani government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for foreign investors and discussed potential incentives to facilitate their entry into the Pakistani market.
The prime minister expressed his deep appreciation to the Amir of Qatar and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.
He emphasized that the visit would further solidify the strong bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation between Pakistan and Qatar, bringing mutual benefit to both nations.
The prime minister’s visit marks another milestone in the ever-strengthening partnership and expanding collaboration between Pakistan and Qatar.