ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Pakistan is keen to build solid strategic relations with Qatar by enhancing economic cooperation in diverse fields of mutual interest. In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), he observed that relations between two countries have seen a steady and positive trajectory over last few years. We want to transform our historical and fraternal bilateral relationship into a more robust strategic relationship.

He said relationship between Pakistan and Qatar is based on mutual trust and shared goal of achieving prosperity for our peoples. We have had excellent cooperation in various fields including energy, manpower export and people to people linkages in past as well.

Prime Minister said there is great potential and opportunities for transformation of these ties into a more robust partnership. He said we need to explore new ventures of cooperation in sectors including renewable energy, food security, industrial and infrastructure development and hospitality. He said his country has most liberal and open investment regimes where investors can freely move their assets and earnings, highlighting special incentives being given to investors in country’s special economic zones. PM praised Qatari endeavours for peace and security in region and world.

Meanwhile,  International organisations and financial institutions announced immediate assistaance of more than 500 million dollars for flood victims on appeal of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

PM chaired an important meeting with international donors here for providing relief to flood victims. Rrepresentatives of the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, international financial institutions, development partners and donors attended meeting. Oofficials of China, United States and European Union, agencies of United Nations and World Health Organisation also took part in meeting. PM briefed international partners about devastation caused by floods in country, particularly in Sindh and Balochistan. He said country faced an emergency situation because of historic rains and floods and a large number of people including women and children lost their lives. He told that houses, infrastructure, crops and orchards were destroyed, roads and bridges were washed away and land routes were cut off which made it difficult to carry out rescue and relief activities.

Relief activities were expanded with help of Pakistan Army and helicopters, he informed.  Devastation caused by floods was graver than what happened in 2010, he said adding affectees needed food, medicines, tents and temporary shelters. He said federal government undertook relief activities in coordination with provinces and federal and provincial departments were working together.

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 26 2022

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