PM Shehbaz Sharif, Qatari Emir Shiekh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his sister Sheikha Al-Mayassa view works on display at the art gallery.—APP
PM Shehbaz Sharif, Qatari Emir Shiekh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his sister Sheikha Al-Mayassa view works on display at the art gallery.—APP

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday met his Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul­rahman Al Thani, wherein they discussed avenues to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, energy, and cultural exchange.

In the “very extensive and productive” meeting, both leaders agreed to promote understanding, foster cooperation, and identify new areas for growth, according to a statement issued by the PM’s Office.

The premier, who is on a two-day official visit to Qatar, acknowledged Doha’s contributions to Pakistan’s eco­nomic gro­wth and expre­ssed his gratitude for the Gulf country’s continued support in various sectors.

The prime minister thanked his Qatari counterpart for hosting a large number of Pakistani diaspora. They also discussed global and regional issues, underscoring the need for peaceful solutions and cooperation to address challenges.

Premier meets Qatari emir and PM to discuss trade, investments, cultural exchange; visits museum showcasing Pakistani artists’ works

PM Shehbaz commended Qatar’s principled stance on the Gaza conflict and its persistent efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. He praised Qatar’s humanitarian initiatives and diplomatic engagements aimed at resolving the conflict and easing the suffering of Gazans, and also its role as a facilitator of dialogue and an advocate for a just resolution to regional conflicts.

The Qatari premier highlighted Pakistan’s strategic importance in the region and expressed his enthusiasm for strengthening ties with Pakistan in line with Qatar’s vision for economic growth and regional stability. He also showed his resolve to work with Pakistan for peace in the region, including Afghanistan.

Additionally, PM Shehbaz extended an invitation to Qatari investors to explore Pakistan’s diverse economic sectors, including agriculture, information technology, and tourism. He outlined the Pakistani government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for foreign investors and discussed potential incentives to facilitate their entry into the Pakistani market.

He emphasised that the visit would further solidify the strong bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation between Pakistan and Qatar, bringing mutual benefit to both nations.

PM Shehbaz also commended Qatar’s stance on the Palestine issue, expressed by its leader during the 79th UNGA held on 24 September 2024. He appreciated mediation efforts by Qatar for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded supply of humanitarian aid. The PM also invited the Qatari emir to visit Pakistan.

Art gallery

Later, PM Shehbaz and Qatar Emir Shiekh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani visited the National Museum of Qatar for an art exhibition titled ‘Manzar: Art and Architecture of Pakistan from 1940s to Today’.

Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, sister of the Qatari leader and chairperson of Qatar Museums, showed the prime minister the artworks and introduced organisers and the Pakistani artists in an informal and friendly atmosphere. The PM expressed gratitude for promoting the Pakistani artists and termed the exhibition a matter of pride for the country.

He said that the establishment of ‘Manzar’ art gallery based on Pakistani artworks reflected strong social bonds between Pakistan and Qatar.

During the visit, the prime minister met renowned Pakistani architect Nayyar Ali Dada, Pakistani photographers, painters, calligraphers and other artists. The artworks of Shakir Ali, Sadeqain, Gul Ji, Zubaida Agha, Kamil Ali Mumtaz, Nayyar Ali Dada, and several other Pakistani artists were exhibited.

Meanwhile, in his post on X, PM Shehbaz said that he was deeply touched by the warm reception accorded by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the emir of Qatar. “Pakistan greatly values its special bond of friendship with Qatar! In this visit, we are adding momentum to Pak-Qatar ties.”

Published in Dawn, November 1st, 2024

Follow Dawn Business on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business, finance and tech from Pakistan and across the world.

Opinion

Editorial

Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...
Islamabad protest
Updated 20 Nov, 2024

Islamabad protest

As Nov 24 draws nearer, both the PTI and the Islamabad administration must remain wary and keep within the limits of reason and the law.
PIA uncertainty
20 Nov, 2024

PIA uncertainty

THE failed attempt to privatise the national flag carrier late last month has led to a fierce debate around the...
T20 disappointment
20 Nov, 2024

T20 disappointment

AFTER experiencing the historic high of the One-day International series triumph against Australia, Pakistan came...