Qatar-France dialogue embodies political will to strengthen ties: FM

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani has affirmed that the first round of the strategic dialogue between Qatar and the French Republic embodies the political will of the leaders of the two countries to upgrade and develop these relations to a level that serves the interests of the two friendly peoples. The first round of strategic dialogue took place in Doha on Monday.
In a joint press conference with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Yves Le Drian, Sheikh Mohammed said the dialogue included several political and economic issues and international developments. In addition to issues of common interest, including Chadian reconciliation, political developments in Lebanon and Afghanistan, the Palestinian cause, Libya and the Iranian nuclear file came up for discussion.
The meeting also affirmed the need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Ukraine and respect for international and humanitarian laws during this crisis.
He described the relationship between Qatar and the French Republic as a strategic and distinguished in all fields, praising the strides taken by the two countries to develop and strengthen these close historical and strategic relations. He said the two countries celebrate in 2022 the 50th anniversary of its founding.
The FM expressed Qatar’s thanks to everyone who contributed and continues to contribute to the development of these distinguished relations.
The FM affirmed Qatar’s commitment to deepening this partnership in all fields to serve common interests that aim to enhance security and stability in the region.
He stressed the importance of the economic partnership between the two countries in various fields, including investment, energy, trade, cultural, sports, and educational cooperation.
He stated that both parties affirm the importance of continuing and developing this partnership to broader horizons.
In conclusion, the FM renewed his welcome to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic in Doha and expressed Qatar’s aspiration to translate this discussion into tangible results.
For his part, Le Drian said that Qatar is a friendly country and reliable partner that has a strategic partnership with France.
He added that France is working with Qatar to meet the new challenges in the energy supply and food security for the continent.
He noted that today’s talks dealt with the situation in Lebanon, adding that they agreed that the restoration of security in Lebanon would pass through the country’s implementation of reforms. He affirmed that global conditions were turned upside down after Russia’s attack on Ukraine, and considered the Russian attack on Ukraine a direct threat to interests in the European continent, adding that international law cannot be selective, and therefore France condemns Russian violations of international law.