Tribune News Network
Doha
His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani told the French Magazine “Le Point” that the relationship between Qatar and France is a good relationship which is strong, historicand deeply-rooted.
HH the Amir touched upon the common understanding and close cooperation between the two countries in various fields such as commerce, culture, sports, security, foreign policy, and military affairs.
In the interview with the Magazine which was published today, on September 14, 2022, HH the Amir confirmed that his relationship with French President Emmanuel Macron is based upon mutual respect, continued communication, an exchange of views on foreign policy, cooperation for peace and stability, and in the field of humanitarian aid.
HH The Amir addressed several pivotal issues during the interview concerning global political affairs as well as Qatar’s foreign affairs, giving an analysis to core issues, ranging from women's issues, freedom of expression, the energy sector and its current contexts, to international affairs, including GCC-Iranian relations, relations among the countries of the world, and international wars and crises.
HH The Amir also highlighted the pivotal role of Qatari foreign policy and its pursuit of bringing opposing views closer together and playing the role of constructive mediation that helps all parties in dialogue reach peaceful solutions to their differences.
In regard to the importance of the GCC, HH The Amir expressed his aspiration for the future pertaining to the relations of the State of Qatar and GCC countries, stressing the importance of unity and cooperation between them. His Highness also expressed his satisfaction that the Council has entered a new phase.
Speaking about the importance of energy for the future of the world, HH The Amir emphasized the significant role played by Qatar as a reliable exporter of energy and its commitment to the agreements which it signs with all of its partners, pointing out that gas will play a very important role in the transitional period and in the diversification of energy sources in the long term, as it is a source of clean energy. He indicated that the State of Qatar has invested significant funds in technology that contributes to carbon capture and reducing combustion.
As for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar, HH The Amir expressed his welcome to all fans regardless of their backgrounds or cultures, hoping that they use this global event to learn more about different cultures while also discovering Qatar's culture, and visiting it again in the future.
In the interview, HH The Amir also underlined the importance of education as an essential key for building societies and investing in human capital, through the development of schools and universities, as a pillar of development and economic diversification, expressing great confidence in Qatar's strong economy, and its readiness for all scenarios in the future.
In response to a question about Islam, HH The Amir explained that Islam is a religion of peace, and that Muslims accept differences and coexistence. HH The Amir also expressed his rejection of discrimination against any minority, whether they believe in Islam or not.