ISLAMABAD: Qatar`s new envoy Sheikh Saoud bin Abdul Rehman Al-Thani on Monday expressed his country`s desire to expand ties with Pakistan and increase its investments here.

In a meeting with Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Ambassador Al-Thani said his country, in an effort to enhance bilateral cooperation in various fields, was looking at undertaking educational projects here, besides enhancing investments.

The new envoy is from Qatar`s royal family. A diplomat said his appointment reflected the interest Qatar is showing in expanding relations with Pakistan.

Mr Qureshi, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office, `discussed ways and means of enhancing the existing economic cooperation, investment in food security and other sectors`. He also underscored the important role played by Qatar in the Afghan peace process.

The two leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments.

SRI LANKA: Newlyappointed High Commissioner of Sri Lanka retired Admiral Mohan Wijewickrama also called on Foreign Minister Qureshi on Monday.

In his conversation with the new Sri Lankan envoy, Mr Qureshi reaffirmed the importance of strong bilateral ties and underscored the need for further deepening and broadening cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.

He particularly emphasised the need for enhancing the volume of bilateral trade and achieving the annual target of $1 billion.

He also underscored the importance of further strengthening all existing consultations and mechanisms between the two countries, according to the FO statement.

Mr Qureshi recalled Pakistan`s cooperation with Sri Lanka in its human resource development, security cooperation and fight against terrorism.