President Zardari meets Qatari Emir, discusses expanding defence partnership

President Asif Ali Zardari met with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, on Wednesday and offered to expand cooperation between Pakistan and Qatar, especially in defence and defence production.

According to the President’s Secretariat, the Qatari Emir welcomed the proposal and said he would instruct the concerned authorities to start discussions with Pakistan soon.

During the meeting, both leaders also reviewed ways to boost relations in political, economic, and cultural areas. President Zardari suggested increasing cooperation in agriculture and food security as well.

The Emir praised Pakistan and said Qatar deeply values the contribution of the Pakistani community to its development. He added that he would like to see more Pakistanis working in Qatar in the future.

President Zardari also conveyed greetings from the government and people of Pakistan and expressed admiration for Qatar’s progress and leadership. Both leaders reaffirmed their strong and brotherly relations, based on faith and mutual respect.

Zardari appreciated Qatar’s global role as a hub of dialogue and humanitarian diplomacy. He also praised the Emir’s efforts for a ceasefire and humanitarian relief in Gaza. The president reiterated Pakistan’s support for Qatar at international platforms.

The Emir expressed satisfaction with the recent Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defence agreement, calling it an important step. He also highlighted Pakistan’s unique position of maintaining strategic relations with China, the West, and Gulf countries.

President Zardari welcomed Qatar’s increased investment in Pakistan and expressed confidence that cooperation between the two countries would continue to grow. He also thanked Qatar for hosting the UN-led Doha process on Afghanistan, which helps coordinate humanitarian and security efforts.

The Qatari Emir said he hoped Pakistan and Afghanistan would resolve their issues soon. President Zardari invited him to visit Pakistan, and the Emir accepted, saying he would visit early next year.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar were also present during the meeting.

On the sidelines of the 2nd World Summit for Social Development in Doha, President Zardari also met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the all-weather Pakistan-China partnership for peace and prosperity.

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