Qatari Emir hails Pak-Saudi defense pact in talks with President Zardari

DOHA: The Emir of Qatar has described the Arab defense agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia as welcome and timely in a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari.

President Zardari met with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and the Pakistani ambassador were also present in the meeting.

The Emir of Qatar said that Qatar is proud of Pakistan and its achievements and appreciated the positive role of the Pakistani community in Qatar.

He expressed his desire to further increase the number of the Pakistani community.

The Emir of Qatar added that Pakistan has a unique position that simultaneously has balanced relations with China, the West, and the Gulf countries.

President Asif Ali Zardari conveyed the message of good wishes to the Emir of Qatar on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan and paid tribute to his visionary leadership and the progress of Qatar.

Both leaders expressed their determination to further strengthen the historic and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Qatar.

President Zardari proposed to increase cooperation in the fields of defense, defense production, agriculture, and food security, to which the Emir of Qatar fully agreed and directed the relevant authorities to establish immediate contacts.

He expressed hope that Pakistan and Afghanistan would resolve the existing issues and promote peace and stability in the region.

The President appreciated Qatar’s constructive role in hosting the Doha talks on Afghanistan. Finally, the Emir of Qatar accepted the invitation of President Asif Ali Zardari and announced a visit to Pakistan early next year.