ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held a detailed telephone conversation on Wednesday, discussing the regional situation, ongoing talks between Iran and the US, and bilateral relations. The two leaders expressed satisfaction over the progress made in the initial technical talks held in Switzerland and stressed the need to continue the diplomatic process.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in a statement released on social media platform X that he had a very pleasant and friendly conversation with the Emir of Qatar, in which various issues related to regional peace and stability were discussed. According to the Prime Minister, both leaders agreed that continuous dialogue and diplomatic efforts are essential to maintain the recent progress.
The Prime Minister thanked the Qatari leadership and said that Doha had fully supported the peace efforts that resulted in the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding on June 18. The agreement is being described as a significant step towards reducing tensions between the US and Iran.
According to government sources, the talks held in the Swiss region of Bergenstock after the Islamabad MoU have ushered in a new phase of relations between the two countries. The aim of these talks is to promote stability in the region and resolve issues that have long been a source of disagreement between the two countries.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also thanked the Emir of Qatar for expressing his condolences over the death of a Pakistani citizen in the recent industrial accident in Ras Laffan. Several people lost their lives in the accident while dozens were injured. The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences to the affected families.
During the conversation, the Prime Minister also appreciated the facilities and hospitality provided to the Pakistani community in Qatar. He said that Pakistanis living in Qatar are an important link in the strong relations between the two countries and Pakistan is grateful to the Qatari government for providing a conducive environment for this community.
The two leaders reiterated their commitment to further strengthen the close brotherly relations between Pakistan and Qatar. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan looks forward to welcoming the expected visit of the Emir of Qatar to Pakistan this year, which can play an important role in further expanding bilateral cooperation.
According to political observers, recent diplomatic activities highlight the role that Pakistan is playing in promoting peace and dialogue in the region. The ongoing talks between the US and Iran are also being seen as an important development at the global level as its impact can be felt not only in the Middle East but also on global energy markets and international security.
Experts say that if the diplomatic process continues in this manner, further reduction in tensions in the region and new opportunities for cooperation can arise, which is expected to promote peace and economic stability.
