Doha, 06 Dec. 2024 (QNA)

Amir of State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani concluded on Thursday his state visit to the  United Kingdom. The Amir of Qatar was accompanied by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani along with an official delegation.

The Amir of Qatar held official talks with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street on Wednesday. The discussions centered on strengthening the longstanding relationship between Qatar and the UK, particularly in areas such as economic growth, investment, education, defense, and addressing regional and global issues, especially the ongoing situation in Gaza and the Palestinian territories.

HH the Amir expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Starmer for the warm welcome and highlighted his satisfaction with meeting King Charles III and the royal family during the visit.

UK's Prime Minister Starmer extended a warm reception to the Amir, noting the significant development of bilateral relations between Qatar and the UK, which have flourished over the past decade.

A joint statement issued following the meeting outlined the strategic direction for UK-Qatar relations, emphasizing the establishment of a Future Framework to enhance cooperation. This Framework builds on the 2010 UK-Qatar Dynamic Partnership and focuses on four key areas: Security, Economic collaboration, Leadership on global challenges, and fostering Cultural and people-to-people connections.

The UK and Qatar will hold an annual Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by the UK Foreign Secretary and Qatari Prime Minister, to ensure the continuous development of these areas.

The two countries agreed to further bolster their defense ties, including joint training programs and expanding the Typhoon and Hawk aircraft partnerships.

They also discussed strengthening cyber security cooperation, with both countries committing to shared expertise and enhanced capabilities to tackle rising cyber threats. Additionally, they explored opportunities for expanding their economic partnership, particularly in clean energy, technology, life sciences, and green economy initiatives.

Qatar’s investments in the UK are estimated to be over £40 billion, contributing to significant job creation and economic growth.

Both leaders reaffirmed their joint commitment to addressing global challenges, particularly in the Middle East, where they have worked together in conflict mediation, including efforts in Gaza and Ukraine.

They emphasized the importance of diplomacy and dialogue to address humanitarian crises and conflicts, particularly advocating for a durable ceasefire in Gaza and supporting a two-state solution.

To further deepen ties, the UK and Qatar agreed to enhance cultural exchanges and educational collaborations.

Memoranda of Understanding were signed between educational institutions in both countries, focusing on research, training, and the exchange of expertise. Additionally, both nations committed to improving tourism and creative industries collaborations.

Furthermore, they signed a Cyber security Memorandum of Understanding, reinforcing the bilateral cooperation to combat emerging digital threats. This agreement highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity in their partnership and marks a significant step in strengthening overall security ties.

This visit marks another milestone in the strong, multifaceted relationship between Qatar and the United Kingdom, with both nations working closely to address shared interests and challenge

During the state visit, King Charles 111 hosted a luncheon at the Buckingham Palace London in honour of Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad AlThani; Mayor of London Alastair King hosted dinner at Mansion House in London on Thursday.

The banquet was attended by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, along with members of official delegation.

On the British side, a number of businessmen, senior officials, and guests were also present.

The Amir also visited Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on Wednesday, Hw was welcomed upon arrival by Secretary of State for Defense of the United Kingdom, John Healey, Commandant of Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Major-General Nick Cowley, along with a number of senior officers, military commanders, and officials.

During the visit, The Amir listened to an explanation on the joint Qatari-UK squadron exercise and met with several academics and Qatari cadets at the academy. In addition, he witnessed an air show of warplanes.

Pictures: Amiri Diwan and QNA