Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has successfully engaged with Qatari business leaders in a series of meetings aimed at attracting Qatari investment to Pakistan. Former diplomat Amb. Waheed Ahmad emphasized the importance of involving Qatari businesses as development partners, which is expected to naturally boost bilateral cooperation and strengthen business linkages with local Pakistani enterprises.

According to Radio Pakistan, Amb. Waheed Ahmad highlighted the strategic need for Qatar to encourage Kabul to adopt a rational stance and curb cross-border terrorism affecting Pakistan. He stressed that Afghanistan must act responsibly to ensure peaceful coexistence with Pakistan by preventing the use of Afghan soil by extremists targeting Pakistan. The former diplomat also noted the necessity for Afghans to recognize the Indian agenda against Pakistan.

The trade volume between Qatar and Pakistan has the potential to increase significantly, driven by Pakistan's gas imports from Qatar. Yet, enhancing exports to Qatar remains a challenge. Ahmad pointed out that Qatar's invitation to international firms to establish business centers presents an opportunity for Pakistan to offer high-tech expertise, including services, skilled personnel, and experts, thereby increasing exports to Qatar. Such efforts could pave the way for a significant rise in Pakistan's skilled manpower exports to Qatar, contributing to higher exports of Pakistani products.