Qatar’s Amir Lauds Pakistan’s Role in De-Escalation of Regional Conflict

Qatar commends Pakistan’s diplomatic role as Sharif reiterates support amid regional tensions

April 16, 2026 at 3:33 PM
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DOHA: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on Thursday, reaffirming bilateral ties and discussing regional security amid heightened tensions in the Gulf.

In a post on X, Sharif described the meeting as “warm and cordial” and expressed gratitude for Qatar’s gesture of sending fighter jets to escort his aircraft upon entering Qatari airspace, calling it a reflection of strong ties and hospitality.

At the meeting that lasted over an hour, the leaders of Pakistan and Qatar discussed regional and international developments, particularly in the Middle East.

Qatar’s Amir praised Pakistan’s role in promoting de-escalation and diplomatic dialogue, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s condemnation of attacks in the region and expressed full solidarity with Qatar.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was accorded a grand reception, highlighting the close ties between the two countries.

As his aircraft entered Qatari airspace, fighter jets from the Qatari Air Force escorted it to the airport, providing a ceremonial and security escort. The prime minister expressed his gratitude to the Qatari leadership and pilots for the warm and distinguished gesture.

Sharif also reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of attacks targeting Qatar and other regional countries, and conveyed Islamabad’s full solidarity with the Qatari leadership and people.

The visit comes as Pakistan continues to play a facilitative role in ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran. Officials say both sides remain willing to continue dialogue, although no timeline has been set for a second round of talks.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concluded his visit to Saudi Arabia, during which he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah and reaffirmed Islamabad’s support for the Kingdom and discussed regional security as well as ongoing efforts to advance dialogue between the United States and Iran.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the two leaders reaffirmed close bilateral ties, explored ways to expand cooperation across key sectors, and reviewed efforts to support dialogue between Washington and Tehran.

The statement added that the meeting, which lasted nearly two hours, focused on strengthening economic collaboration, enhancing defence cooperation, and exchanging views on the evolving regional security situation.

The prime minister was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, and the prime minister’s spokesperson for international media, Musharraf Zaidi.

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