Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani has reiterated Pakistan's firm commitment to further deepening bilateral ties with Qatar in all areas, particularly in the political, economic, and cultural domains.
He was talking to Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council of Qatar, Dr. Hamda Bint Hassan Al-Sulaiti, who called on him in Morocco.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest including bilateral relations, parliamentary engagement, investment, culture, trade, and peace in the Middle East.
Chairman Senate said Pakistan attaches great importance to its brotherly and cordial relations with Qatar.
He noted that the long-standing and close people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and Qatar have continuously strengthened bilateral ties.
The Chairman Senate expressed keen interest in the upcoming visit of Amir of Qatar to Pakistan, terming it a significant opportunity to elevate bilateral ties to new heights.
He also appreciated the efforts of Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani in organizing the "Manzar" exhibition in Pakistan, which showcased Pakistan's rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani said that Qatar's involvement in initiatives such as 'Qatar Charity', the 'Qatar Fund for Development', and 'Education Above All' reflects the close and growing affinity between the two countries.
Stressing the need for expanding parliamentary diplomacy and holding consultative meetings between the two countries, Chairman Senate called for the signing of additional Memorandums of Understanding to facilitate these objectives.
He also underscored the need to convene all institutional mechanism meetings-including the Joint Ministerial Commission, the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment, and the Joint Committee on Labour-prior to the upcoming visit of the Amir of Qatar.
The Chairman Senate said Pakistan is fully prepared to provide skilled human resources for Qatar's development in the sectors of IT, medicine, and infrastructure.
During the meeting, Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council of Qatar, Dr. Hamda Bint Hassan Al-Sulaiti, described Pakistan as a key country in the Muslim Ummah and highlighted the deep religious, cultural, and historical bonds between the two nations.
She acknowledged the Pakistani diaspora's active role in contributing to Qatar's economic, social, and IT development.
She appreciated Pakistan's efforts in promoting regional peace and its significant role in the fight against terrorism.
The Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council of Qatar said that her country seeks to further enhance parliamentary and people-to-people contacts with Pakistan and reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to continued mediation efforts for international harmony and regional peace.