Sheikh Tamim Centre for Innovation to open at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, UK

The foundation stone for the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Center for Innovation was laid at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom on Monday, marking another development in the defence cooperation between Qatar and the UK.

Qatar Leads Delegation at Ceremony

Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani, led the Qatari delegation at the foundation stone-laying ceremony.

The event was attended by senior Qatari and British defence officials, including Luke Pollard, UK Minister of State for Defence Readiness and Industry, Major General Nick Cowley, Commander of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and General Sir Roland Walker, Chief of the General Staff of the British Army.

Centre to Support Innovation and Military Education

The Qatar Ministry of Defence said the centre reflects the depth of the strategic partnership and strong defence ties between Qatar and the UK.

It described the facility as a “qualitative addition” to the Academy’s education and training environment. The centre will support innovation while contributing to the development of the academic and cognitive capabilities of students and military personnel.

Qatar-UK Military Cooperation Discussed

During the visit, discussions focused on strengthening military cooperation between Qatar and the UK.

The two sides also explored ways to expand collaboration in academic qualification and training, alongside discussions on a number of issues of mutual interest.

Sheikh Saoud Meets Qatari Students

As part of his visit to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Sheikh Saoud met with Qatari officer candidates and students currently studying at the Academy.

The meeting provided an opportunity to engage with Qatari personnel undertaking military education and training in the UK.

Senior Officials Attend Ceremony

The ceremony was also attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani, Ambassador of Qatar to the United Kingdom, along with senior Qatari and British military officers and officials.

The establishment of the innovation centre adds to the broader academic, training and defence cooperation between Qatar and the United Kingdom.