ISLAMABAD: Pakis­t­an and Qatar on Tuesday backed de-escalation and talks to avoid potential conflicts as both sides appeared concerned about recent regional devel­opments, particularly in Iran and Afghanistan.

“Regional developme­nts were also discussed, in particular the situation in Iran and Afghanistan. Both sides emphasised the importance of dialogue, de-escalation and collective efforts to promote peace and stability in the region,” said a statement issued by the Prime Min­ister’s Office after a meeting between PM Shehbaz Sharif and Qatar’s Deputy PM Saoud bin Abdu­lrahman Al Thani in Doha.

Earlier this week, Pakis­tan struck “terrorist hideouts” in Afghanistan as it blamed Kabul-based outfits for a rise in terrorism in the country. Similarly, the US and Iran are on the brink of a war after Donald Trump said he was considering a limited strike if Tehran did not reach a deal with the US.

During the meeting, PM Shehbaz and the Qatari official discussed bilateral cooperation in defence and security. The PM underscored Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening defence cooperation and expanding collaboration.

Mr Al Thani appreciated the professionalism and expertise of the Pakistan armed forces and conveyed Qatar’s interest in deepening the defence partnership between the two countries.

Meeting with Qatari leader

In a separate meeting, PM Shehbaz and Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani reviewed the bilateral relations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to boosting the bilateral ties. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international developments, emphasising the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful resolution of disputes, said a PM’s Office statement.

PM Shehbaz reiterated his invitation to the Qatari amir for a visit to Pakistan, which was accepted by the latter. The visit will take place later this year. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir were present in the meeting.

Trade ties

In his meeting with Qatar’s trade minister, the PM stressed the importance of enhancing bilateral trade volumes and diversifying Pakistan’s exports to Qatar, particularly in agricultural products, food items, and value-added goods.

Foreign Trade State Minister Dr Ahmed bin Moham­med Al-Sayed, who is also the chairman of the Pak-Qatar Joint Business Task Force, had called on the premier to discuss the bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

PM Shehbaz underscored the significance of “enhancing trade volumes” between the two countries. Both sides discussed a follow-up to the 6th Session of the Pakistan-Qatar Joint Ministerial Commission and reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the agreed decisions. They also agreed to convene a meeting of the task force in Ramazan to discuss concrete investment proposals for Qatari investment in Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, February 25th, 2026