Islamabad: The Senate Friendship Group has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade and strategic connectivity between Pakistan and Qatar, following a meeting between Senator Zeeshan Khanzada and Qatari Ambassador Ali Mubarak Ali Essa Al-Khater. The discussions aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation and address logistical challenges affecting trade routes.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the meeting emphasized the importance of Qatar as a key regional partner in Pakistan’s energy security and highlighted the momentum generated by high-level leadership exchanges, including visits by Pakistan’s Prime Minister and President to Doha. Both countries expressed their dedication to regional stability, particularly praising Qatar’s role in facilitating dialogue during the Pakistan-Afghanistan border crisis.

Despite reaching $3.608 billion in bilateral trade for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, officials acknowledged that the trade volume does not yet reflect the full potential of the relationship. To address this, the Pak-Qatar Joint Ministerial Commission plans to elevate the existing Joint Working Group into a dedicated Trade Investment Force, focusing on modernizing engagement and streamlining investments in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, aviation, and hospitality. The meeting also addressed the impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure on trade routes, with optimism expressed for future growth through alignment with Qatar Vision 2030.

The session further discussed the welfare of the 300,000-strong Pakistani diaspora in Qatar, with appreciation for the care provided during recent regional tensions. To deepen bilateral ties, the Friendship Group proposed more frequent parliamentary delegation exchanges. The meeting, led by Senator Khanzada and Misbah Khar, concluded with a mutual commitment to resolving consular issues, including visa policies and a prisoner exchange agreement, while exploring new ventures in IT, pharmaceuticals, and maritime sectors.