Amir, UK PM discuss ways to strengthen strategic ties

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani on Tuesday discussed with British Prime Minister Theresa May ways to strengthen the strategic bilateral relations and co-operation in different fields so as to achieve the interests of the two friendly countries and peoples.Talks were held to bolster co-operation especially in economy, trade, investment, health, sports, security and defence, in addition to discussing both countries' efforts to combat terrorism and its financing in order to strengthen regional security and stability.The discussions, which were held at 10 Downing Street, touched on a number of international and regional issues, notably the Gulf crisis and the importance of resolving it through dialogue to ensure the unity of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, in addition to discussing the general situation in the Middle East.

The prime minister welcomed the Amir at the beginning of the talks and praised the tangible development of mutual co-operation in different fields, including security, defence, health, education and culture. She also highlighted the long-standing and historical ties between the two countries and their strong friendship, looking forward to encouraging it towards wider horizons.May expressed her country's will to contribute to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030, developing trade and investment relations between the two countries, in addition to cooperating on fighting terrorism. As for Qatar's hosting the 2022 World Cup, the prime minister said that all eyes are now on Qatar after the end of the World Cup in Russia, noting that Qatar will organise a successful tournament.His Highness the Amir expressed his pleasure to visit the United Kingdom and hailed the strategic relations and strong historical ties that kept both countries together for more than 100 years. The Amir also praised the progress made in all fields since his last visit, especially in economy, security, defence, and others.Regarding co-operation on fighting terrorism, the Amir highlighted the close joint work being done by both countries through Al Udeid Air Base.His Highness the Amir also highlighted the importance of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the contribution of British companies to achieve it.On Qatar's hosting of the 2022 World Cup, the Amir highlighted the meetings that were held with the British side to review the potential opportunities and aspects of co-operation, referring to Britain's expertise and success in organising the 2012 Olympic Games and other international sporting events.The talks were attended by members of the official delegation.From the British side, the talks were attended by a number of ministers and senior officials.His Highness the Amir and the prime minister witnessed the signing of a letter of intent for co-operation in the field of combating terrorism between the governments of Qatar and the United Kingdom, at 10 Downing Street, the headquarters of the Government of the United Kingdom.Signing of the letter comes in response to the keenness of both countries to deepen co-operation in combating terrorism and also in respect of international standards and the principles of human rights in terms of tackling the threat of terrorism.The letter of intent aims to exchange information and intelligence on terrorism and co-operation in the area of law enforcement on issues related to terror activities, in addition to co-operation in tackling threats facing the transport sector, including airport security, aviation and combating financial crimes.Members of the official delegation attended the signing.A number of ministers and senior officials attended from the British side. The Amir attended a luncheon banquet hosted by the prime minister at 10 Downing Street, in his honour and the accompanying delegation.The banquet was attended on the UK side by a number of ministers and ranking officials. His Highness the Amir met on Tuesday with Secretary of State for Home Department Sajid Javid, at the Amir's residence in London. During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations and ways to develop them, especially in security cooperation, in addition to the efforts of both countries to combat terrorism and its causes.They also exchanged views on the latest regional and international developments.The meeting was attended by members of the official delegation.