PM Shehbaz, Qatar Amir Strengthen Defence, Energy Cooperation
News Desk
Doha: Pakistan and Qatar have agreed to expand cooperation in defence, security, and energy sectors following high-level talks between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, held in Doha.
According to official sources, the meeting took place in a warm and cordial atmosphere, where both leaders discussed bilateral relations, regional developments, and efforts to promote peace and stability in the Gulf region. They stressed the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to Qatar for the exceptional hospitality extended during his visit, including the escort provided by Qatari fighter jets to his aircraft.
He also appreciated the formal reception upon arrival, where he was welcomed by Qatar’s Minister of State# for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, alongside a guard of honour by the Qatari armed forces.
Both sides exchanged views on the evolving regional situation and strongly emphasized the need for restraint and cooperation amid growing tensions. The prime minister condemned recent attacks on Qatar and other countries, reiterating Pakistan’s full solidarity with the Qatari leadership and people.
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening longstanding ties between Pakistan and Gulf nations, particularly in the fields of defence cooperation, energy collaboration, and broader economic engagement.
Earlier, the prime minister arrived in Doha on an official visit accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, and spokesperson Musharraf Zaidi.
The visit is part of a wider diplomatic tour that includes Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey from April 15 to 18.
In Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held high-level meetings, including a nearly two-hour discussion with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, where both sides reviewed regional developments and reaffirmed strategic cooperation.
During his stay in Saudi Arabia, the prime minister also visited Medina, where he offered prayers at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and presented salutations at the Prophet’s Chamber. He was received by Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Officials said the leadership discussions with Saudi Arabia focused on defence, security, economic cooperation, and regional stability, with both sides reiterating their commitment to long-term strategic partnership.
In Turkey, the prime minister is expected to attend the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he will present Pakistan’s position on regional and global issues alongside other world leaders.
The diplomatic engagements come at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Pakistan has emphasized the need for dialogue-driven solutions and continues to advocate for de-escalation across the region.
