Islamabad, July 13: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has departed for Qatar to offer condolences on the passing of the country’s former Emir, underscoring the close and longstanding ties between Pakistan and the Gulf nation.
The prime minister is expected to meet members of the Qatari royal family and senior officials during his visit, where he will convey heartfelt sympathies on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan. The visit reflects the tradition of solidarity between the two countries during moments of national grief.
Officials said Shehbaz Sharif’s visit is aimed at expressing Pakistan’s respect for the late leader’s contributions to Qatar’s development and his role in strengthening bilateral relations. The former Emir was widely recognized for overseeing significant economic progress and expanding Qatar’s influence on the international stage.
Pakistan and Qatar share strong diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, with cooperation spanning trade, energy, investment, and employment opportunities for thousands of Pakistani workers residing in the Gulf state. Analysts believe the visit will also reaffirm the commitment of both countries to further deepen their strategic partnership.
The prime minister is expected to sign the official condolence book and participate in meetings with Qatari leadership before returning to Islamabad. Government officials emphasized that the visit highlights Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining close engagement with friendly nations during both celebrations and times of mourning.
As tributes continue to pour in from leaders around the world, Shehbaz Sharif’s visit reflects Pakistan’s enduring friendship with Qatar and its support for the Qatari people during this period of national bereavement.
