In a series of high-level meetings in Doha, Pakistan and Qatar have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with a focus on defense cooperation and regional stability. These discussions took place on the sidelines of the emergency Arab-Islamic summit, convened in response to Israel’s recent strike in Qatar. 
Strengthening Military-to-Military Engagement
Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, met with Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, to discuss matters of mutual interest, including regional security. Senior Qatari military officials were also in attendance. The two sides agreed to broaden military cooperation through a variety of initiatives, including joint training programs, military exercises, and capacity-building efforts. This agreement underscores the shared determination of both nations to enhance their defense capabilities and promote peace and stability in the region.
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Pakistan Condemns Israeli Assault on Qatar
During the summit, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif met with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. The Prime Minister strongly condemned Israel’s recent attack, describing it as a “blatant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law.” He urged the Muslim Ummah to stand united against such aggression and called for an immediate end to Israeli hostilities in the Middle East. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir were also present at the meeting, demonstrating a unified Pakistani front.
Bilateral Meeting with Iranian President
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also held a separate bilateral meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the summit. The leaders of Pakistan and Iran expressed their solidarity with Qatar and emphasized the urgent need for a unified response from Muslim nations in confronting Israeli aggression. The discussions highlight a growing regional consensus on the need to protect national sovereignty and de-escalate tensions.
The meetings in Doha underscore the importance of collective action and diplomacy in addressing the complex security challenges facing the region. Pakistan remains committed to its role in promoting peace and stability through strong bilateral partnerships and active participation in international forums.
