Pakistan and Qatar reaffirm ties, discuss Middle East developments

Pakistan and Qatar on Wednesday underscored their commitment to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation across multiple fronts, signaling continued close engagement amid ongoing regional developments.

During a telephone call, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani discussed regional issues and Qatar’s efforts to promote dialogue and stability in the Middle East, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction over the “positive momentum” in Pakistan-Qatar relations and emphasized the importance of maintaining close and brotherly ties. Prime Minister Sharif also commended Qatar’s constructive role in facilitating dialogue and assured that Pakistan would continue contributing to regional peace and stability.

The statement added that both sides agreed to remain in close contact in the coming days to further strengthen cooperation on key political, economic, and strategic matters.

The discussion comes as the Middle East faces mounting tensions, including weeks of unrest in Iran triggered by worsening economic conditions and a government crackdown on protesters. Amid this unrest, Iran is confronting repeated threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has indicated he may intervene in support of anti-government protesters.

President in Bahrain

Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari addressed a state banquet in his honor at Al-Qudaibiya Palace in Bahrain on Tuesday, highlighting the depth of historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom.

The banquet was hosted by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and attended by senior Bahraini officials, the diplomatic corps, and the Pakistani delegation. First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari was also present.

In his remarks, President Zardari thanked the Bahraini leadership for their hospitality and emphasized the importance of longstanding people-to-people and bilateral relations. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, defense, and labour issues, while acknowledging Bahrain’s support for the Pakistani community residing in the kingdom.

Earlier, President Zardari held a meeting with King Hamad, during which the two leaders exchanged views on regional and international developments and discussed ways to strengthen collaboration across key sectors.