PM Imran to leave for Qatar today

Premier to discuss concession in LNG prices, provision of gas on one year credit

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan will embark on a two-day visit to Qatar on Monday.

The premier is travelling on the invitation of Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hammad al Thani, said Foreign Office Spokesperson Dr. Muhammad Faisal.

The Pakistani delegation includes Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, PM’s Special Assistant on Overseas Pakistanis Zulfikar Bukhari, Finance Minister Asad Umar and Adviser to PM for Commerce Abdur Razzaq.

PM Imran will also call on his Qatari counterpart Abdullah bin Naseer bin Khalifa al Thani to discuss matters of mutual interest. He will hold meetings with the Emir over concession in LNG prices and a one-year loan of gas.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, sources expressed expecting a 'positive' reply on the issue of gas. If the Qatari leadership agrees, the loan will be a relief as Pakistan's LNG import bill touches $4 billion. An agreement pertaining to provision of employment to skilled Pakistanis will also be discussed.



Earlier in December 2018, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Qatar and met with the country’s Emir.

The Qatari Emir appreciated Pakistan’s efforts and positive role it played for regional peace and stability particularly in Afghanistan.

He thanked COAS for Pakistan’s continued support towards a negotiated political settlement for peace in Afghanistan.

Both sides also discussed measures to enhance bilateral security cooperation.

General Qamar also called on Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Naseer bin Khalifa al Thani.

The Qatari premier expressed keen desire to further diversify and broaden mutual cooperation including security with Pakistan.

[With additional input from News Desk]