Defence, investment, and humanitarian diplomacy top agenda in Zardari’s key meetings with Doha and Beijing.

DOHA/BEIJING — President Asif Ali Zardari held high-level meetings on Wednesday with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to deepening regional cooperation and strengthening economic and defence ties with both allies.

During his meeting with Sheikh Tamim, President Zardari proposed expanding collaboration in defence and defence production, which the Qatari emir welcomed, instructing his government to initiate discussions with Pakistan immediately.

Zardari also highlighted opportunities for partnership in agriculture and food security, emphasizing the shared goal of enhancing regional stability and economic resilience.

“Pakistan and Qatar share deep-rooted historical and brotherly relations. Our collaboration in defence, trade, and humanitarian development will define a more secure and prosperous future,” President Zardari said.

Defence Cooperation and Regional Solidarity

The Qatari emir expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s achievements and the contribution of the Pakistani community to Qatar’s development, adding that Doha hopes to increase Pakistani workforce participation in the near future.

President Zardari, conveying greetings from the government and people of Pakistan, praised Qatar’s progress and visionary leadership, reaffirming the shared Islamic and cultural values that bind both nations.

The leaders also discussed Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, with President Zardari commending Sheikh Tamim’s efforts for advocating a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.

Reiterating Pakistan’s solidarity with Qatar, Zardari emphasized Islamabad’s consistent condemnation of Israeli aggression and unwavering support for Qatar’s sovereignty in international forums.

In response, Sheikh Tamim welcomed Pakistan’s recent defence agreement with Saudi Arabia, describing it as “a timely and necessary step” for regional security. He also noted Pakistan’s strategic importance in maintaining balanced relations with China, the West, and Gulf nations.

Investment, Humanitarian Cooperation, and Afghan Peace Efforts

President Zardari invited enhanced Qatari investment in Pakistan’s economic and energy sectors and commended Qatar’s ongoing humanitarian contributions through the Qatar Fund for Development and Education Above All Foundation.

He also paid tribute to Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani for their leadership in promoting education and cultural exchange.

Acknowledging Qatar’s mediation efforts in Afghanistan, Zardari thanked Doha for hosting UN-led Doha process meetings, which he said were vital for global coordination on humanitarian and security issues.

The Qatari emir expressed optimism that Pakistan and Afghanistan would soon resolve outstanding issues through constructive dialogue, reaffirming Qatar’s readiness to support peace efforts.

President Zardari also extended an invitation to Sheikh Tamim to visit Pakistan, which the emir accepted, confirming he would travel to Islamabad early next year.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar were also present during the discussions.

Zardari, Chinese Vice President Strengthen ‘Iron Brotherhood’

On the sidelines of the same conference, President Zardari met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, reiterating the “iron brotherhood” between Pakistan and China and vowing to advance cooperation across multiple domains.

The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional peace, economic development, and mutual respect, while agreeing to strengthen cooperation at regional and international forums.

President Zardari expressed gratitude for China’s consistent support, particularly during economic and security challenges, noting that the friendship with China “remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy.”

Zardari praised the successful progress of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has now entered its second phase of high-quality development, focusing on transport, infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and vocational training.

Vice President Han Zheng, conveying greetings from President Xi Jinping, lauded Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to accelerate CPEC projects as part of China’s vision for shared prosperity and connectivity in South Asia.

“Pakistan and China are iron brothers time-tested partners who will continue to stand by each other for peace, development, and progress,” Zardari said following the meeting.