Qatar seeks Pakistan Army's help to host World Cup

Qatari PM keen to learn from Pak army’s experience in security domain

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Qatar Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani on Tuesday showed his interest in learning from Pakistan Army’s experience in the security domain and sought assistance during the upcoming World Cup to be held in Qatar, including the provision of manpower.

According to the ISPR, he was talking to Army Chief Gen Qamar Bajwa, who is on an official visit to Qatar.

The army chief also met with the Commander Qatar Emiri Land Forces Maj-Gen Muhammed Ali Ghanim al Ghanim and Commander Qatar Emiri Guard Major General Hazza bin Khalil al Shahwani.



During his meeting with the army chief, the Qatari premier acknowledged Pakistan’s contributions towards development and growth of Qatar. He also lauded Pakistan Army’s contributions towards regional peace.

He said: “The people of Qatar greatly value the people of Pakistan and trust their time-tested commitment for working in Qatar.” The Qatari PM also showed interest in working with Pakistan on multiple fronts -- including cyber security, defence production and ease of travel. The army chief thanked the Qatari prime minister for his expression and assured him of all possible cooperation in the desired fields.

Separately, the Commander Qatar Emiri Land Forces appreciated Pakistan Army’s professionalism and performance in the on-going fight against terrorism.



During his meeting with General Qamar, the major-general showed interest in conducting joint training and field exercises.

The army chief thanked Major General Muhammed Ali Ghanim al Ghanim and assured him of working for undertaking training cooperation.

The army chief also visited the Qatar Emiri Guard Headquarters and met Major General Hazza bin Khalid al Shahwani and went to the Ahmed Bin Mohamed Military College where Pakistani tri services contingent of 166 members is being trained.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 8^th, 2017.