DOHA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha on Thursday, where both leaders discussed the evolving situation in the Gulf region and stressed the need for de-escalation and dialogue. The meeting took place shortly after the premier’s arrival in Doha, following the conclusion of his visit to Saudi Arabia.
Upon landing, he was received by Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, along with a guard of honour presented by the Qatari Armed Forces. The city was also adorned with Pakistani flags.
In a statement shared on X, PM Shehbaz described his meeting with the Qatari emir as “warm and cordial,” noting that both sides underscored the importance of international coordination to ensure regional stability. He also reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of recent attacks targeting Qatar and other Gulf countries, expressing full solidarity with the Qatari people. The prime minister thanked the Qatari leadership for the gesture of sending fighter jets to escort his aircraft upon entering Qatari airspace, calling it a reflection of Qatar’s hospitality and strong bilateral ties.
Earlier, the premier concluded his visit to Saudi Arabia, where he met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The discussions focused on strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and addressing regional tensions.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also described the meeting as one marked by “brotherhood and a shared vision.” During his stay in Madina, PM Shehbaz visited Masjid-e-Nabwi and offered prayers for Pakistan’s prosperity and global peace. He also paid respects at Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH), where special arrangements were made for his delegation.
According to the Foreign Office, the prime minister’s ongoing tour — covering Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye — aims to enhance bilateral cooperation and promote peace amid rising regional tensions. In Türkiye, he is scheduled to attend the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he will present Pakistan’s perspective on global and regional issues.
The visit comes at a critical time, as tensions in the Gulf — particularly involving Iran, the United States, and Israel — have heightened concerns over regional security. Pakistan has been actively advocating for dialogue and mediation to prevent further escalation.
