Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha on a one-day visit to offer condolences.
- The visit reflects the long-standing ties between Pakistan and Qatar.
- Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman received the Pakistani delegation at Doha Airport.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in Doha, Qatar, on a one-day visit to offer condolences following the death of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated that PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and other officials are accompanying the premier during his visit.
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 PMO announced that Shehbaz Sharif will meet with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to convey his condolences.
The visit is part of ongoing diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Qatar, reflecting the close ties between the two nations. In a statement, the PMO highlighted the decades-long fraternal relations between the Qatari royal family, people, and government with their Pakistani counterparts.
During his stay in Doha, Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to visit Lusail Palace where he will meet Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The meeting aims to express Pakistan's condolences to the Qatari ruler, royal family, and the people of Qatar following the passing of Sheikh Hamad.
The PMO also mentioned that Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar are part of the delegation accompanying Shehbaz Sharif. The visit underscores the strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and Qatar, which have been marked by mutual support in various fields over the years.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passed away on July 12, 2026, at the age of 74. He was a key figure in modernizing Qatar, overseeing significant economic growth and transformation during his tenure from 1995 to 2013.
The visit by Shehbaz Sharif is seen as an important gesture of solidarity between Pakistan and Qatar, highlighting the enduring nature of their relationship.
