Qatar has praised Pakistan’s role in supporting efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha on Thursday.

The meeting, held at the Emiri Diwan and lasting over an hour, focused on the evolving situation in the Middle East, with both leaders stressing the need for dialogue and coordinated international efforts to ensure regional stability.

PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of attacks targeting Qatar and other Gulf countries, and reaffirmed Islamabad’s “full solidarity and support” for the Qatari leadership and people.

“I had a most warm and cordial meeting with my dear brother, Amir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha today,” the prime minister said in a post on X.

“We discussed the evolving regional situation, particularly in the Gulf region, and underscored the importance of de-escalation, dialogue, and close international coordination to ensure peace and stability,” he added.

He also thanked the Qatari leadership for “the exceptionally warm and generous gesture of sending Qatar’s fighter jets to escort our aircraft as it entered Qatari airspace.”

“I am truly touched by this gesture, which also embodies the spirit of Qatar’s renowned hospitality and the strength of our enduring ties,” he said.

Both sides emphasised the importance of maintaining smooth global energy supply chains and agreed to enhance coordination in light of ongoing regional developments.

The leaders also reviewed bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in key sectors, including security, defence and energy.

In a separate one-on-one meeting, they exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and agreed to maintain close consultation as the regional situation evolves.

The Emir later hosted a luncheon in honour of the prime minister and his delegation.

Shehbaz arrived in Doha earlier in the day on the second leg of his three-country tour, aimed at advancing diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions, including reviving US-Iran talks.

He was received at Doha International Airport by Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, where a ceremonial guard of honour was presented.

The visit followed his trip to Saudi Arabia, where he held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and briefed him on Pakistan’s mediation efforts.

The prime minister is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, and spokesperson for international media Musharraf Zaidi.