Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif discussed Iran and Afghanistan with Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani in Doha on Tuesday. The talks focused on regional tensions, defence cooperation, and economic ties amid rising security concerns.
The discussions matter for regional stability and directly affect Pakistan, Qatar, Afghanistan, Iran, and the wider Middle East. According to a joint statement, both leaders reaffirmed their strong and historic partnership. They emphasized dialogue, de-escalation, and collective efforts to maintain peace and stability.
Read more: PM Shehbaz invites Qatari investors to explore Pakistan opportunities
Both sides reviewed ongoing defence and security cooperation and pledged to strengthen collaboration further. Shehbaz expressed satisfaction with coordination between the armed forces of both countries. Meanwhile, Sheikh Saud praised the professionalism of Pakistan’s military. The leaders agreed to expand strategic engagement across key sectors. They also reiterated their shared commitment to elevating bilateral relations. The meeting highlighted the growing importance of Islamabad-Doha ties during regional uncertainty.
وزیراعظم سے قطر کے نائب وزیراعظم و وزیر مملکت دفاعی امور کی ملاقات
وزیر اعظم محمد شہباز شریف سے قطر کے نائب وزیر اعظم اور وزیر مملکت برائے دفاعی امور عزت مآب شیخ سعود بن عبدالرحمن بن حسن بن علی الثانی نے آج دوحہ میں ملاقات کی۔
ملاقات کے دوران فریقین نے دفاع اور سیکیورٹی میں… pic.twitter.com/UGiXUFTBbG
— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) February 24, 2026
The discussions come as Pakistan faces worsening relations with Afghanistan. Islamabad accuses Kabul of failing to prevent cross-border militant attacks. On Sunday, Pakistan conducted intelligence-based strikes on seven targets inside eastern Afghanistan. Officials said the operation killed more than 100 militants. The strikes followed recent suicide bombings, including an attack on an imambargah in Islamabad. Consequently, tensions between the two neighbors remain at a critical level.
Read more: PM in Qatar to expand cooperation
At the same time, concerns over Iran have intensified across the region. The United States has increased its military presence in the Middle East. Reports suggest Washington seeks leverage ahead of renewed negotiations with Tehran. Fears of potential conflict have grown among civilians and foreign governments. Several countries have advised their citizens to leave Iran. Therefore, regional leaders are calling for restraint and diplomatic solutions.
Minister of State for Foreign Trade of Qatar H.E. Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Sayed calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. pic.twitter.com/8lscTiAgwm
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) February 24, 2026
Earlier, Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Sayed also met the prime minister to review economic cooperation. Both sides expressed satisfaction over expanding trade and investment ties. Shehbaz called for increasing exports, particularly in agriculture and value-added products. They agreed to convene a joint task force meeting during Ramadan to discuss investment proposals. Shehbaz arrived in Doha at the invitation of Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, marking his third visit in five months.