Prime Minister Imran Khan and Qatari Minister for Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani on Friday discussed expansion of bilateral trade and Qatari investment in Pakistan, according to a statement issued from the Prime Minister’s Office.
The Qatari foreign minister, who arrived in Islamabad on a two-day official visit, conveyed felicitations and best wishes of Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Khan on his election as Pakistan premier.
Expressing appreciation for warm sentiments of the emir of Qatar, the prime minister reciprocated by underlining the commitment of his government to build mutually beneficial relations with Qatar. Referring to increase in Pakistan’s exports to Qatar, he hoped that bilateral trade would further expand in the coming years.
Khan invited Qatari investment in all sectors of Pakistan’s economy, especially in agriculture, livestock and energy. He also expressed the hope for early implementation of Qatar’s decision to import 100,000 workers from Pakistan. The Qatari foreign minister assured Khan of full support and cooperation of the government of Qatar in attaining the dream of a progressive, prosperous and forward looking Pakistan.
In response, PM Khan conveyed his best wishes for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of Qatar under the leadership of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Earlier, the visiting dignitary met his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi.
During the meeting, bilateral relations, economic and trade ties came under discussion.
The Qatari foreign minister assured Pakistan that Qatari visa centre was being established in Islamabad to facilitate skilled human resource for job placement in various companies in Qatar.
It might be mentioned that Qatar had already relaxed visa rules for Pakistani citizens and one-month entry is given to Pakistani citizens upon arrival at Doha airport.
Published in Daily Times, October 20th 2018.
