Qari Mohammad Fasihuddin Fitrat, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, held a meeting with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026).
Kabul 24: Enayatullah Khwarzmi, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, announced the meeting on Monday, January 19, 2026 (29 Jadi 1404), via an official post on X (formerly Twitter).
According to the Ministry, the high-level Afghan defence delegation is participating in DIMDEX 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious and largest international exhibitions dedicated to defence industries, military technologies, naval systems, and advanced weaponry.
The biennial event, held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, attracts senior military officials, defence ministers, armed forces commanders, and leading defence companies from across the globe.
The exhibition serves as a key platform for bilateral discussions, showcasing the latest military innovations, and strengthening defence and security cooperation among participating nations.
The presence of the Chief of Staff of the Afghan Armed Forces and his meeting with the Emir of Qatar highlights the Islamic Emirate’s active efforts to expand military and defence relations with regional and international partners, particularly Gulf countries.
In recent years, Qatar has emerged as a significant player in military diplomacy, mediation, and hosting major global defence events, using such platforms to reinforce its strategic position on the world stage.
Although specific details of the discussions between Qari Fasihuddin and Sheikh Tamim have not been publicly disclosed, informed sources suggest the talks likely covered areas such as bilateral military cooperation, training programs, exchange of expertise, defence technology, and regional security issues.
This engagement comes as Afghanistan continues its efforts to rebuild and modernize its defence structures following recent political developments.
Participation in prominent international military exhibitions like DIMDEX provides an important opportunity for the country to present its capabilities and establish constructive ties with global defence communities.
DIMDEX 2026 will continue over the coming days, and further meetings between the Afghan delegation and other senior military officials from various countries are expected during the event.
