Doha: President Asif Ali Zardari met with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha, where the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the historic and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Qatar.

The Emir of Qatar expressed pride in Pakistan and its achievements, lauding the contributions of the Pakistani community in Qatar. He also expressed his desire to increase the number of Pakistani workers in the country, acknowledging their role in Qatar’s progress and development.

President Zardari conveyed warm wishes from the government and people of Pakistan to the Emir, praising Qatar’s remarkable development under Sheikh Tamim’s visionary leadership.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in defense, defense production, agriculture, and food security. The Emir welcomed the proposals and directed relevant Qatari authorities to initiate immediate coordination with their Pakistani counterparts.

The Emir described the Pakistan–Saudi Arabia defense agreement as a timely and positive development, noting Pakistan’s unique position as a country maintaining balanced relations with China, the West, and the Gulf states.

President Zardari commended Qatar’s role in hosting the Doha peace talks and its continued efforts for regional stability, particularly in Afghanistan. The Emir expressed hope that Pakistan and Afghanistan would overcome existing challenges and move toward lasting peace and cooperation.

Accepting President Zardari’s invitation, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani announced his plans to visit Pakistan in early next year.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar also attended the meeting.