Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday expressed profound appreciation for Qatar's unwavering support for Pakistan's peace initiatives during the Gulf crisis, stating that a peace agreement between the United States and Iran is expected to be finalized very shortly.
Telephone Conversation Between Leaders
According to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, the premier received a telephone call from Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The two leaders discussed the latest developments in the Gulf region's peace process.
The call was described as warm and cordial. Prime Minister Shehbaz conveyed his greetings and best wishes to the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the brotherly people of Qatar. The Qatari prime minister reciprocated the sentiments.
Appreciation for Qatar's Role
The premier expressed deep appreciation for Qatar's strong and steadfast support for Pakistan's peace efforts throughout the Gulf crisis. He noted that a peace deal is expected to be signed by the relevant parties shortly.
The Qatari prime minister lauded Pakistan's instrumental role as a peacemaker in the region. He paid tribute to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for steering diplomatic efforts in the right direction. He assured that Qatar is proud to support Pakistan's endeavors and hopes this will bring lasting peace to the region.
Invitation and Future Contact
Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated his invitation to the Emir of Qatar for an official visit to Pakistan in the near future, as previously agreed. Both sides agreed to remain in close contact in the coming days.
Social Media Post
Later, on X, PM Shehbaz thanked Qatar for its support. He wrote: "During my warm and cordial telephone conversation this evening ... I conveyed my profound appreciation for Qatar's steadfast support for Pakistan's peace efforts throughout the Gulf crisis. We exchanged views on the latest developments regarding the landmark peace deal. We remain hopeful that this historic endeavor will lay a strong foundation for lasting peace and stability across the region."
Background of the Conflict
Qatar and Pakistan have strengthened diplomatic ties over the years, especially during the US-Iran war that erupted after the US-Israel coalition killed Iran's supreme leader. The premier visited Doha on April 16 amid the conflict, and both leaderships vowed to continue peace efforts.
On February 28, the US and Israeli alliance assassinated Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader. In retaliation, Iran hit Israel and US assets in the Gulf with drones and missiles, later taking control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for oil, gas, and cargo transit, crippling a significant portion of the global economy.
The US called on NATO and other allies to assist in attacking Iran, which faced strong opposition. On April 7, US President Donald Trump threatened that a whole civilization would die that night, hinting at a decisive blow against Iran. Amid this volatile situation, Pakistan stepped up as a key peacebuilding player, offering to provide a bridge for negotiations. A day later, the US president announced a ceasefire, though it has been repeatedly violated by both sides.
