President Zardari offers expansion of defence collaboration to Qatari emir

DOHA (Dunya News) – Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has expressed pride in Pakistan’s achievements and reaffirmed his resolve to further solidify bilateral ties during a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari in Doha.

Welcoming the President, Sheikh Tamim lauded the contribution of the Pakistani community in Qatar and voiced his desire to see its numbers grow significantly. President Zardari conveyed greetings and best wishes from the government and people of Pakistan, while both leaders pledged to deepen their historic and brotherly relations.

During the meeting, President Zardari praised Qatar’s progress and the Emir’s visionary leadership. Sheikh Tamim described the recent Pakistan–Saudi Arabia defence agreement as timely and commendable, noting Pakistan’s distinctive position as a nation maintaining strong ties with China, the West, and Gulf states simultaneously.

President Zardari proposed expanding cooperation in defence, defence production, agriculture, and food security. He also commended Qatar for hosting the Doha peace talks and for its constructive role regarding Afghanistan.

The Emir expressed readiness to enhance collaboration and directed relevant authorities to establish immediate contact for follow-up. He also voiced hope that Pakistan and Afghanistan would resolve existing issues and overcome current challenges. Accepting President Zardari’s invitation, Sheikh Tamim announced plans to visit Pakistan early next year. The meeting was also attended by Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan’s ambassador to Qatar.

Earlier, President Zardari met Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on the sidelines of the Global Social Development Conference in Doha. The two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations, boosting trade, and exploring new investment opportunities.

President Zardari commended Qatar’s efforts to safeguard regional security amid Israeli aggression and praised the country’s constructive diplomatic stance. The Qatari Prime Minister, in turn, lauded the courage and professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces, particularly their conduct during recent Pakistan-India tensions. He also expressed optimism that ongoing efforts in Afghanistan would contribute to lasting peace and stability across the region.