His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani’s first state visit to Malaysia is expected to strengthen relations between Qatar and the Southeast Asian nation, an embassy official has said.

“This visit will provide an opportunity for leaders of both countries to discuss bilateral issues and exchange views on issues of common interest,” chargé d'affaires Mohamed Shahir bin Sabarudin said in a statement.
At the invitation of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong XV, Sultan Muhammad V, His Highness the Emir’s two-day state visit, which concludes today, will be accompanied by several cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and a business delegation.
“This will be His Highness the Emir’s first state visit to Malaysia since he ascended to the throne on June 25, 2013. The last state visit by the Emir of Qatar to Malaysia was by the HH the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani in May 2009,” the statement said.
According to Sabarudin, Qatar and Malaysia “continue to enjoy close relations” in various key areas, including political, economy, and social affairs.
The statement said HH the Emir will be accorded with a state welcoming ceremony at the parliament today. Later in the evening, HH the Emir will have an audience with His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong XV, Sultan Muhammad V to be followed by a state banquet at the Istana Negara.
“HH the Emir is also scheduled to have a restricted meeting with the Malaysian prime minister to be followed by a delegation meeting at Seri Perdana, the prime minister’s official residence,” the statement added.