President Zardari, Qatari Emir Agree to Expand Defence and Economic Cooperation
President Asif Ali Zardari met Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani in Doha on Wednesday and proposed expanding collaboration in defence and defence production. The Qatari Emir welcomed the idea and assured that relevant authorities would begin discussions with Pakistan immediately.
Stronger Bilateral Partnership
During their meeting, both leaders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and agricultural sectors. President Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing food security partnerships and encouraged more Qatari investment in various industries.
The Emir praised Pakistan’s achievements and expressed appreciation for the role of Pakistani professionals in Qatar’s development. He said their numbers should increase in the coming years to further strengthen bilateral ties.
President Zardari conveyed greetings from the people of Pakistan and admired Qatar’s rapid progress under its visionary leadership. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong desire to deepen collaboration for regional peace and prosperity.
Shared Vision for Peace and Prosperity
Both sides reaffirmed their historic and brotherly relationship based on faith, trust, and shared aspirations. President Zardari commended Qatar’s global role as a centre of dialogue and humanitarian diplomacy, particularly its advocacy for a ceasefire and relief efforts in Gaza.
He reiterated Pakistan’s solidarity with Qatar and acknowledged Doha’s efforts in regional stability. The Qatari Emir expressed satisfaction with the recent Pakistan–Saudi Arabia defence agreement, calling it a timely and positive step. He also recognized Pakistan’s unique position as a nation balancing strategic ties with China, the West, and Gulf states.
President Zardari appreciated Qatar’s support for the UN-led Doha Process on Afghanistan, emphasizing its importance in promoting peace and humanitarian cooperation in the region.
Future Engagements and Commitments
The Qatari Emir accepted President Zardari’s invitation to visit Pakistan early next year. Both leaders expressed confidence that their partnership will continue to grow under Zardari’s leadership.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the two countries’ shared commitment to regional peace, mutual prosperity, and the advancement of the Muslim ummah.
Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar also attended the meeting. On the sidelines of the 2nd World Summit for Social Development in Doha, President Zardari met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, further expanding Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach in the region.
Key Highlights
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Pakistan and Qatar to expand defence and production cooperation.
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Emir praises Pakistan’s role in regional diplomacy.
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Zardari welcomes more Qatari investment and workers’ opportunities.
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Doha backs Pakistan–Saudi defence partnership.
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Emir to visit Pakistan early next year.
Conclusion
President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to Doha reaffirmed Pakistan’s long-standing ties with Qatar and emphasized mutual goals of stability, cooperation, and progress. The two nations’ shared approach to regional challenges and economic growth highlights a renewed phase in their historic partnership.
