Qatar-France strategic dialogue embodies political will to develop relations: FM

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani

HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani affirmed that the first round of the strategic dialogue between the State of Qatar and the French Republic, which was held in Doha on Monday, 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.

In a joint press conference with HE Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Yves Le Drian, His Excellency said that 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, in addition to affirming the need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Ukraine and respect for international law and international humanitarian law during this crisis.

His Excellency described the relationship between the State of Qatar and the French Republic as a strategic and distinguished relationship in all fields, praising the strides taken by the two countries to develop and strengthen these close historical and strategic relations, noting that the two countries celebrate in 2022 the 50th anniversary of its founding.

HE the Foreign Minister expressed the State of Qatar's thanks to everyone who contributed and continues to contribute to the development of these distinguished relations.

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed the State of Qatar's commitment to deepening this partnership in all fields to serve common interests that aim to enhance security and stability in the region, stressing the importance of the economic partnership between the two countries in various fields, including investment, energy, trade, cultural, sports, and educational cooperation.

His Excellency stated that both parties affirm the importance of continuing and developing this partnership to broader horizons.

In conclusion, His Excellency renewed his welcome to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic in Doha and expressed the State of Qatar's aspiration to translate this discussion into tangible results.

For his part, HE Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Yves Le Drian said that Qatar is a friendly country and reliable partner that has a strategic partnership with France.
His Excellency 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.

(QNA)