Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha on July 13, 2026, to offer condolences.
- The visit marks a day of national mourning declared by Pakistan.
- Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman received the Pakistani delegation at the airport.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha on July 13, 2026, to offer condolences for the passing of former Qatar Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The visit was part of a one-day trip that also included PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and other high-ranking officials from Pakistan’s government.
Upon arrival at Doha Airport, the Pakistani delegation was received by Qatar's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani. The reception highlighted the close ties between the two nations, with both countries expressing mutual respect and solidarity.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) announced that PM Shehbaz would meet with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at Lusail Palace to convey his condolences. This meeting is expected to reaffirm the strong diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Qatar, which have been maintained over several decades.
In a statement issued after the arrival of PM Shehbaz, the PMO emphasized that the visit reflected the enduring fraternal relationship between the Qatari royal family, people, and government with their Pakistani counterparts. The statement also noted that Sheikh Hamad’s tenure as Amir from 1995 to 2013 was marked by significant economic growth and transformation in Qatar.
Pakistan declared July 13, 2026, a day of national mourning, with the national flag flying at half-mast throughout the country. This decision underscores the importance Pakistan places on its relationship with Qatar and the respect it holds for Sheikh Hamad’s contributions to his nation.
The visit also included meetings with other high-ranking officials from both countries, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar. These interactions are expected to strengthen bilateral ties and explore further areas of cooperation between Pakistan and Qatar.
