Shehryar Khan Afridi, Pakistan’s Minister of State for States and Frontier Regions (Safron) and Narcotics Control, has supported Qatar’s right to make independent decisions and pursue a sovereign foreign policy, and hoped that the blockade ends sooner than later.
The Pakistani minister, who recently concluded his visit to Qatar, said: “Pakistan believes that every sovereign state has the right to make its decisions and policies independently irrespective of its size,
economy or military might.”
Talking to Gulf Times, the minister reiterated Pakistan’s position and said: “No country (in the international comity of nations) is considered bigger or more powerful. Pakistan respects the sovereignty of all countries. We always desire and work for a stable Middle East. There are already conflicts in many Muslim-majority countries.
“In this situation, the ultimate objective of the Government of Pakistan is to engage the countries in the region for the peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues. Pakistan wants to see the OIC (Organisation of Islamic Co-operation) getting stronger. Pakistan believes dialogue is the only way to resolve all issues, and tries to play the bridging role. Pakistan hopes that the blockade ends sooner than later.”
He described his visit as successful and lauded the co-operation extended by Qatar in different areas of common interest. “Pakistan is ready to co-operate with the Government of Qatar in the areas of common interest. We thank Qatar for releasing a good number of Pakistanis arrested in connection with minor cases.
“I have also asked government functionaries to celebrate a cultural year with Pakistan in the near future. Bilateral trade is also increasing and we are working to have more investments from Qatar. Tourism is increasing in Pakistan and different international institutions have started recognising the potentials Pakistan has. Pakistan has skilled professionals who can contribute to the development of Qatar.”
The visiting minister was all praise for Pakistani expatriates working in Qatar. “This is my second visit to Qatar. In my meetings with different Qatari authorities, I have got positive words about the Pakistani expatriates living and working in Qatar. Qatar appreciates the role of Pakistanis in all the difficult times the country has faced so far.
“Further, in my meetings with the Pakistani community, I have urged them to continue working hard and comply with the laws of Qatar. This is their home away from home.”
Shehryar Khan Afridi
