Islamabad – The atmosphere at the Islamabad reception was one of both dignified tradition and warm fellowship, as Ambassador Ali Mubarak Ali Essa Al-Khater eloquently bridged Qatar’s storied past with its dynamic present. He invited guests Prime Minister Muhamad Shahbaz Sharif as a chief guest to reflect on the nation’s foundational journey, stating, “We gather not only to mark a date on the calendar, but to honor the vision and resilience that forged our modern identity.” By invoking the legacy of Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, the Ambassador rooted the day’s celebrations in the moment, nearly a century and a half ago, when Qatar’s path toward sovereignty and unity was decisively charted.
This historical reflection served as a powerful prelude to discussing the contemporary partnership with Pakistan, suggesting that both nations are built upon similar pillars of sovereignty and strategic foresight.
In his remarkes Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhamad Shehbaz Sharif extended Pakistan’s warmest congratulations to the leadership and people of Qatar on their National Day, delivering a powerful address that celebrated deep bilateral ties and a shared vision for the future. Speaking at a ceremony the Prime Minister painted a vivid picture of a fraternal bond built on “deep solidarity and long-standing friendship.
” In a resonant message of unity, he echoed the vision of Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, declaring, “The nation rises with you and stands with you.”
Praising Qatar’s Vision and Global Role PM Shehbaz lauded Qatar’s extraordinary developmental journey, anchored in the Qatar National Vision 2030. He highlighted the nation’s swift transition from the resounding success of the FIFA World Cup 2022 to its crucial, high-stakes role as a peace mediator in global conflict zones—a leadership he described as “awe-inspiring.” “The real strength of a nation lies in its people,” the Prime Minister stated, commending Qatar’s focus on human development.
He detailed the strategic partnership between the two nations, which spans energy security, trade, investment, and vibrant people-to-people connections. Prime Minister also paid special tribute to the vast Pakistani community in Qatar, recognizing their “dignified contributions” to the country’s growth. He underscored significant Qatari investments in Pakistan, particularly in renewable energy and other sectors, noting they fuel “shared economic interests” and mutual prosperity. Reflecting on his two visits to Doha—first in solidarity amid regional aggression and later for the Arab-Islamic Summit— PM Shehbaz expressed Pakistan’s deep respect for Qatar’s diplomatic initiatives for peace and stability.
The event, awash in the maroon and white of the Qatari flag, stood as a vibrant testament to a friendship that has flourished across decades. The Ambassador’s words framed the bilateral relationship as a natural evolution of shared principles and mutual respect. He detailed how the deep-rooted diplomatic ties have matured into a robust, multi-faceted collaboration, energizing fields from energy and infrastructure to defense, education, and cultural exchange. The presence of Pakistan’s highest leadership at the celebration was highlighted as a clear symbol of the relationship’s strategic priority for both capitals, promising a future of even greater shared accomplishments and prosperity.
The celebrations culminated in a ceremonial cake-cutting, joined by Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, and Ambassador Al-Khater, symbolizing the sweetness of the enduring Pakistan-Qatar friendship.
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
