Qatar, France hold first round of strategic talks

The first round of strategic dialogue between the governments of Qatar and France was held Monday in Doha. HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani chaired the Qatari side while French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian headed the French side. They discussed bilateral co-operation relations and means of supporting and developing them, several political and economic issues, and international developments, in addition to issues of common interest, especially Chadian reconciliation, political developments in Lebanon, Afghanistan, the Palestinian cause, Libya, and the Iranian nuclear file.Also, the two sides reviewed the outcomes of the joint working committees of the Qatari-French strategic dialogue in various fields, including defence and security, economy and investment, energy, education, culture and scientific research, climate change and environment, and sports, in testimony to the close strategic partnership between the two countries.The two sides affirmed the need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Ukraine and respect for international law and international humanitarian law during this crisis, in addition to the congruence of views on international files and other regional issues.Later addressing a joint press conference, HE Sheikh Mohamed affirmed that the first round of the strategic dialogue embodied the political will of the leaders of the two countries to upgrade and develop relations to a level that serves the interests of the two friendly peoples.He described the relationship with France as strategic and distinguished in all fields, affirming Qatar's commitment to deepening the partnership.Le Drian said that Qatar is a friendly country and reliable partner that has a strategic partnership with France.He considered the Russian attack on Ukraine a direct threat to interests in the European continent.