Web Desk: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and former premier Nawaz Sharif arrived in Qatar’s capital Doha on a one-day official visit to convey condolences over the death of former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and discuss bilateral ties with the Gulf state’s leadership.
The Pakistan’s delegation was received at Hamad International Airport by Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence, Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani.
The visit comes as Pakistan observes a national day of mourning following the passing of Sheikh Hamad, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and played a key role in transforming the country into a major regional and global economic player.
During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to travel to Lusail Palace, where he will meet Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
According to Pakistani government sources, the two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral relations, economic cooperation and issues of mutual interest, along with regional and international developments.
The talks are likely to focus on strengthening long-standing ties between Pakistan and Qatar, particularly in areas including trade, investment, energy cooperation and diplomatic engagement.
The primary purpose of the visit is to express Pakistan’s condolences to the Qatari leadership, the royal family and the people of Qatar following the death of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
During his 18-year rule, Sheikh Hamad oversaw Qatar’s rapid economic expansion, supported by its natural gas wealth, and helped elevate the country’s international profile.
Pakistan has described his leadership as instrumental in Qatar’s development and in strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, along with Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar.
The delegation is expected to participate in official engagements during the brief visit before returning to Pakistan.
The trip highlights the close diplomatic relationship between Islamabad and Doha, with both countries maintaining cooperation across economic, political and regional issues.
Read more: PM Shehbaz announces nationwide mourning on demise of former Qatari ruler
