(MENAFN- Gulf Times) The brotherly relations between Pakistan and Qatar are getting stronger and deeper while co-operation in various areas, particularly in the field of defence, is increasing day by day, Pakistan ambassador Shahzad Ahmed has said.
'The governments of the two countries are keen to take the bilateral ties to new heights, he stated at a diplomatic reception yesterday in Doha to celebrate Pakistan's Armed Forces Day.
In attendance were Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Thani al-Thani, Dr Fahad bin Abdul Rehman Abu Hamd al-Thani, and Brigadier General Salim al-Nabit from Qatari Armed Forces, apart from diplomats, other dignitaries, representatives of Qatari and Pakistani armed forces and a large number of Pakistani expats.
The event was organised to pay homage and tributes to the martyrs and ghazis of Pakistan Armed Forces who have rendered supreme sacrifice towards nation-building and attaining peace.
In his address, ambassador Ahmed highlighted Pakistan's contribution towards attainment of peace around the world under UN Peacekeeping mission that dates back to 1947, when Pakistan achieved independence. The countries where Pakistan had completed international missions or are currently participating are spread across three continents such as Africa, Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
'Extremist movements that threaten peace and stability in today's world were not borne in Pakistan but exported to our doorsteps through western confrontation during the cold war. Pakistan has been the biggest victim of terrorism, with hundreds of billions of dollars lost through destruction of physical infrastructure, and lost opportunities for development, the envoy said.
'Pakistan's efforts to eradicate this menace have proceeded well over the last several years, with the majority of militant areas in Pakistan cleared and the number of deadly attacks minimised to remote localities outside urban areas. Pakistan's campaign to eradicate terrorism has come albeit at a loss of around 70,000 deaths. In this regard who can say they could have done more, he asked.
Shahzad further stressed that Pakistan's resolve stands firm, and called upon the world to do more to expunge the hatred, the bigotry and the criminality that drives and motivates those who would harm others.
'Today's world order needs more dialogue, and better diplomacy. Countries need to learn the lessons from unjust wars being fought in various countries around the world. Let us all stand up for peace, he urged.
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