Ex-Secretary of State for Wales: Amir's visit underlines enduring UK-Qatar ties

Alun Cairns, former Secretary of State for Wales, asserted that the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the UK, underlines the rock-solid and enduring ties between Qatar and the UK, adding that it presents an opportunity to significantly bolster bilateral cooperation beyond investments and politics.In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), Cairns underlined that this visit is significant as it is the first by an Arab leader since His Majesty King Charles III acceded to the throne of the United Kingdom. He noted that Qatar wields stable influence and strength in a region fraught with challenges.Recently, Qatar has achieved a substantial diplomatic success, with respect to the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip which has been grinding on since Oct 7, 2023, said Cairns.He added that Qatar's role has been extraordinary, with ceasefire negotiations starting early, describing the situation in Gaza as tragic and marked by challenges.Inaugurated in 2009 by HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and the late Queen Elizabeth II, the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Terminal in Pembrokeshire, South Wales, was the first major Qatari investment in the energy sector, Cairns highlighted, adding that since then, bilateral relations have been substantially strengthened, with Qatar extensively investing in the UK's economy.He clarified that the terminal currently provides 20% of the UK's gas supply, with plans underway to increase this to 25%. This increase hinges upon the absence of any challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the perturbations it has caused to gas supplies throughout Europe.He affirmed that the Qatari gas supplied through the South Hook LNG Terminal in Pembrokeshire has augmented the European gas stockpiles, bolstering them for winter months.The Qatar-UK Business and Investment Forum, held in London and Birmingham, has successfully enhanced bilateral cooperation, Cairns noted, adding that he is grateful for Qatar's confidence in the UK's economy.He emphasized that Qatar's investments in the UK are prominently recognized, as well demonstrated in Chelsea Barracks, but strikingly the skyscraper, The Shard, draws the interest of most tourists, as the tallest building in London and an architectural landmark that specifically attracts many tourists.He noted that Qatar hosts numerous global forums and conferences, including the Doha and Qatar Economic Forums as two core pillars, stating that many businessmen, diplomats and leaders are committed to engaging in those major events.