Doha: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in Qatar on a one-day official visit to offer condolences following the passing of Qatar’s former Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar accompanied the prime minister during the visit.
According to official sources, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, during his stay in Doha.
The primary purpose of the visit is to convey Pakistan’s condolences to the Emir of Qatar, members of the Qatari royal family, and the people of Qatar on the demise of the country’s former ruler, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
Officials said the visit reflects the close and longstanding ties between Pakistan and Qatar, with the prime minister personally expressing sympathy on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to convey a message of solidarity with the Qatari leadership and reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding bilateral relationship with the Gulf nation.
Pakistan and Qatar maintain strong diplomatic, economic, and strategic relations, with cooperation spanning energy, investment, trade, defence, and labour. Qatar is one of Pakistan’s major energy partners and hosts a large Pakistani expatriate community that contributes significantly to both countries through economic and social ties.
Although the visit is primarily focused on offering condolences, it is also expected to provide an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on matters of mutual interest and discuss ways to further enhance bilateral cooperation.
The presence of senior Pakistani leaders, including former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Information Minister Atta Tarar, underscores the importance Pakistan attaches to its relationship with Qatar.
The visit also highlights Pakistan’s tradition of standing with friendly nations during times of grief and maintaining close diplomatic engagement with key regional partners.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to return to Pakistan after completing the one-day visit.
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