ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and Qatar have agreed to take steps to significantly increase bilateral trade, expand collaboration in agriculture and food sectors.
Prime Minister Imran Khan and HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks in Islamabad on Saturday.
The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the energy sector including in the LNG and LPG fields and exploration and production of oil and gas.
It was also agreed to promote Qatar’s investments in energy, tourism and hospitality industries.
Pakistan and Qatar agreed to increase the number of Pakistani workers employed in Qatar, expand cooperation in the fields of aviation, maritime affairs, higher education, and defence and defence production.
The talks decided that the respective Ministers would hold further follow-up talks on the areas to give concrete shape to the proposals agreed between the leaders.
The two leaders reaffirmed the closeness of Pakistan-Qatar fraternal ties and reiterated the resolve to forge a robust political and economic partnership.
Delegation level talks were held between Pakistani and Qatari delegations.
Prime Minister Imran Khan led the Pakistani delegation while Qatari side was headed by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Earlier, at the Prime Minister House, a smartly turned out contingent representing army, navy and air force presented Guard of Honor to the distinguished guest.
The Emir of Qatar inspected the Guard of Honor. National anthems of the two countries were also played on the occasion.
Prime Minister introduced the distinguished guest with members of cabinet and the federal ministers.
Prime minister Imran Khan was also introduced with members of Qatari delegation.
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani planted a sapling at the lawn of Prime Minister House as per tradition.
A JF-17 squadron of PAF saluted the guest in a magnificent fly past.
Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani arrived at Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi this afternoon on two day visit to Pakistan.
He is visiting Pakistan at the invitation of Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The plane carrying the Emir had flags of both Pakistan and Qatar installed on it, reflecting the importance Qatar gives to its relations with Pakistan.
A high-level delegation, including ministers, is accompanying the Qatari Emir.
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was accorded a red carpet reception with Prime Minister Imran Khan personally receiving him warmly.
The distinguished guest was given a 21-gun salute. Two children presented bouquets to the guest.
Prime Minister introduced members of his cabinet with the guest.
They included Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis Syed Zulfikar Bukhari and others.
The route from Nur Khan Airbase to Red Zone Islamabad is adorned with portraits of visiting guest as well as the flags of both countries.
Prime Minister himself drove the distinguished guest to the Prime Minister House in Islamabad.
COURTESY – rp
