Why is Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif Visiting Qatar? A Tribute to a Former Emir

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has traveled to Qatar to express condolences following the death of former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. This visit highlights the enduring relationship between the two nations and the Sharif family's close ties with Qatar's royal family. Accompanied by key officials, Sharif's meeting with the current emir underscores the diplomatic significance of this gesture. The former emir, who passed away at 74, led Qatar from 1995 to 2013, and his legacy continues to influence regional relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 13, 2026, 13:55 IST

Shehbaz Sharif's Condolence Visit to Qatar

Islamabad: On Monday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan embarked on a brief trip to Qatar to pay his respects following the passing of former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

The announcement of the former emir's death at the age of 74 was made by Qatar on Sunday. He served as the country's leader from 1995 until 2013.

Accompanying PM Sharif were Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, as confirmed by the Prime Minister's Office on social media.

During his visit, the prime minister is scheduled to meet with Qatar's current emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to convey his condolences regarding the former emir's demise.

The Prime Minister's Office emphasized that this visit underscores the long-standing relationship between the Qatari royal family, the people of Qatar, and the government of Pakistan.

The Sharif family is known to have strong ties with Qatar's ruling family.

In 2016-2017, when Nawaz Sharif was embroiled in a corruption case before the Supreme Court, his family presented letters from former Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al-Thani as part of his defense.

However, the Supreme Court dismissed these letters as insufficient evidence for establishing a money trail, leading to Nawaz Sharif's removal from office and subsequent conviction for corruption.