Doha: President Asif Ali Zardari met with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha on Wednesday, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening historic Pakistan-Qatar ties through expanded cooperation in defense, trade, and food security. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development, being held in the Qatari capital from November 4 to 6.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency, President Zardari proposed enhancing collaboration in defense and defense production, to which the Qatari emir responded positively, directing relevant authorities to begin discussions with Pakistan immediately. He also welcomed Zardari’s invitation to visit Pakistan, confirming that he would do so early next year.
Sheikh Tamim praised Pakistan’s recent defense pact with Saudi Arabia, describing it as a timely and long-overdue step. He noted Pakistan’s unique strategic position as a nation maintaining strong relations with China, the West, and the Gulf states simultaneously, and commended the country’s regional role in promoting stability.
The Qatari emir expressed pride in Pakistan’s achievements and lauded the contribution of the Pakistani community in Qatar’s development, expressing a desire to increase their numbers in the coming years.
President Zardari, conveying greetings from the government and people of Pakistan, hailed Qatar’s remarkable progress and visionary leadership. He proposed greater collaboration in agriculture, food security, and investment, expressing confidence that bilateral relations would continue to flourish.
During the talks, President Zardari also commended Qatar’s global humanitarian leadership, especially its advocacy for a ceasefire and relief for the people of Gaza. He paid tribute to Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani for their efforts in promoting education and cultural exchange through the Qatar Fund for Development and the Education Above All Foundation.
On regional matters, both leaders discussed recent Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions, with Sheikh Tamim expressing hope that both nations would move beyond their differences. Qatar, which has hosted multiple rounds of Pakistan-Afghanistan talks in Doha and Istanbul, continues to play a mediating role.
President Zardari appreciated Qatar’s efforts in hosting the UN-led Doha Process on Afghanistan, reaffirming Pakistan’s support for all diplomatic initiatives aimed at peace and development in the region.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their “historic and brotherly relations, founded on shared faith, mutual trust, and aspirations for peace and prosperity in the Muslim world.
Later, President Zardari also met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, where both sides reaffirmed their resolve to deepen the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between Pakistan and China. Zardari lauded China’s support under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has now entered its second phase of high-quality development. The Chinese vice president conveyed warm greetings from President Xi Jinping and reaffirmed Beijing’s continued support for Pakistan’s development, particularly in infrastructure, technology, and vocational training.
President Zardari was accompanied by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, MNA Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, and Pakistan’s ambassador to Qatar during the meeting.