DOHA: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani has announced the signing of a letter of intent for cooperation between the State of Qatar and the United Kingdom in the field of peace, reconciliation and conflict resolution, within the framework of the Qatari-British Joint Strategic Dialogue.
During a joint press conference with UK Foreign Secretary HE David Lammy, the prime ministersaid that the letter of intent signed will enhance technical cooperation between the two countries to develop capabilities in these areas and support international efforts to achieve peace.
He explained that the first joint development working group held its work to build on joint bilateral efforts to address humanitarian and global health challenges, and to create joint development initiatives, in light of doubling the joint financing initiative for development cooperation to $100 million. He stressed that work will be done to explore joint programs for the highest priority countries, including, but not limited to the Gaza Strip, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, and Bangladesh.
He said, "Since the first strategic dialogue, the Qatari-British partnership has witnessed intensive efforts to deepen cooperation at various levels. The visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to London last December represented a historic milestone in the history of relations between the two friendly countries, during which we affirmed our commitment to deepening the strong historical bilateral partnership between the two countries."
He stressed that the launch of the second strategic dialogue, titled 'Partners Towards the Future', represents another milestone in advancing the partnership between the State of Qatar and the United Kingdom. He also called for continued strengthening of cooperation in various fields, including the economy, trade, investment, defense, security, and cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
He pointed out that the strategic dialogue has resulted in eight joint working groups working to develop practical steps towards achieving the shared aspirations of the two countries. These include the launch of a working group in the field of technology, science, and innovation, and a working group in the field of health. This indicates the prospects available for advancing current cooperation between the State of Qatar and the United Kingdom in the fields of modern technology, artificial intelligence, and future opportunities, including their role in supporting healthcare applications and health data.
He added, "A prosperous future is a slogan we all stand behind, and the State of Qatar and the United Kingdom are a landmark in the strategic partnership in the fields of economy, trade, and investment in a vibrant and prosperous manner."
He noted that joint efforts have emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation, particularly in the fields of education, culture, heritage, sports, health, research, innovation, and genomics. He explained that Qatari-British partnerships have become more important than ever in light of the major risks and ongoing escalation that threaten international security.
The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke about Qatari investments in the United Kingdom, stating that Qatar invests more than£40 billion in the British economy, which benefits the Qatari sovereign fund and creates opportunities for growth and prosperity in the United Kingdom, ensuring the future of future generations in the State of Qatar. He noted that the volume of trade exchange between the two countries reached £1.6 billion in 2024.
He affirmed that the State of Qatar continues to play a pivotal role among major global investors in the United Kingdom, as it is the first partner of the leading British partnerships. He considered the United Kingdom one of the most important investment partners of the State of Qatar, in light of its proven track record of successes in key investment areas.
He stated that Qatari investments in the United Kingdom have contributed to supporting the growth of the British economy and its projects, increasing job opportunities, innovation, and economic development in both friendly countries, particularly in the fields of science, technology, sustainability, climate change adaptation, and digital development. He emphasized that this partnership is a strong sign of the shared commitment to creating prosperity and a bright future for the two friendly peoples.
In a related context, he spoke during the conference about the distinguished relationship between the friendly Qatari and British peoples, embodied by the thousands of Qatari students receiving their education in British schools, colleges, and universities, while tens of thousands of members of the British community reside in Qatar.
On the other hand, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs warned of the escalation of the ongoing Israeli aggression against the occupied Palestinian territories and the Gaza Strip, indicating that the region is facing greater dangers than ever before. He warned of the dangers of politicizing humanitarian aid, targeting humanitarian workers, and using hunger as a form of collective punishment, as this places the entire region on the brink of collapse.
He stressed Qatar's commitment to working to de-escalate the situation and called on Israel to stop blocking the entry of humanitarian aid. He emphasized that Qatar is working tirelessly to support all efforts aimed at resolving disputes through dialogue and negotiation.
He touched on the latest positive developments in the Syrian Arab Republic, including the rebuilding of a country devastated by war. He noted that Qatar supports the negotiations between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, mediated by Oman, as well as the peace negotiations in Ukraine and other international efforts aimed at realizing humanity's dream of a just peace.
Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of continuing these efforts, given the worsening crises that have led to humanitarian repercussions, most notably in Sudan and Yemen, and the need to achieve a shared vision for peace and stability for these peoples.
For his part, Lammy described his country's relationship with the State of Qatar as long-standing and strong, based on the foundations of friendship and mutual respect.
He emphasized the importance of the Qatari-British strategic dialogue, while also reviewing areas of joint cooperation between the State of Qatar and the United Kingdom, which include science, innovation, development, mediation, health, and education, in the interests of both countries and their friendly peoples.
He pointed out that the Qatari-UK strategic dialogue is vital and fruitful, and that the partnership between the two countries is built on a shared ambition and will contribute to creating job opportunities and increasing growth and investment in both countries.
He said, "This partnership reflects our shared desire for Britain to remain a stable investment destination and a growing economy, and it also contributes to enhancing security in our region."
He pointed out that Qatar and Britain enjoy a long-standing and solid partnership, one of the strongest between the two peoples. He explained that tourism from the United Kingdom to Qatar has witnessed remarkable growth, particularly during the World Cup. Conversely, the number of Qataris visiting London and the United Kingdom has been steadily increasing, particularly during July and August.
He stressed that the partnership between the two countries is growing stronger, and that both sides can look forward to a more prosperous future through joint planning.
The British Foreign Secretary expressed his gratitude to the working groups that contributed to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, noting the significant progress achieved so far.
"Despite the difficult geopolitical situation, we look to the future with hope and strive to promote an open economy that believes in global trade," he said.
He emphasized the importance of continuing trade exchange between the two countries, expressing his hope for achieving the goal of the joint trade agreement, which he had worked hard to prepare over the past year, describing it as "an important step forward in strengthening bilateral relations."
he commended the efforts of Sheikh Mohammed to achieve peace and reconciliation, commending his extensive experience in the global arena.
Speaking about the situation in the region, the UK Foreign Secretary said the devastating war in Gaza must end quickly, stressing that diplomacy is the only way to achieve peace.
He commended Qatar's mediation efforts in this regard, saying, "The United Kingdom is deeply grateful for Qatar's role in mediating a ceasefire agreement and securing the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, including three associated with the United Kingdom."
He stressed that the United Kingdom is committed to working to achieve peace and a two-state solution, noting that his country will continue close cooperation with Qatar on various issues, including the situations in Gaza, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Iran, and Somalia.
He said, "All of these issues require close cooperation at this critical time to alleviate human suffering, particularly in Africa."
He stressed the United Kingdom's commitment to continuing its efforts to support humanitarian work and ensure that aid reaches those most in need.