PM and Emir of Qatar agree on a "dynamic partnership for the future"
The Prime Minister welcomed His Highness The Emir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani to Downing Street as part of the Emir's State Visit
In a joint statement released after their meeting, the PM and the Emir agreed to “build a new and dynamic partnership for the future, building on the rich shared history” between the UK and Qatar.
The visit comes in the context of the increasing global political and economic significance of Qatar and of Qatar’s relations with the UK.
Read the full Joint Statement between the PM and the Emir of the State of Qatar
Topics discussed included UK-Qatar Defence Co-operation Arrangement; regional issues; cultural, sporting and educational ties; and travel arrangements.
The two leaders also discussed trade, investment and energy. Over the past 5 years, bilateral trade with Qatar has more than doubled to £2.2 billion and Qatar has invested some £10 billion in the UK in the last few years.
Qatar is also now a major supplier of energy to the UK, supplying 11% of the UK’s gas demand during the UK’s coldest winter in 30 years.
The Emir and his consort Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al-Missned are on a three-day State Visit from Tuesday 26 October to Thursday 28 October and are guests of The Queen at Windsor Castle. As well as meeting the Prime Minister, their Highnesses will meet other members of the Royal Family and attend a meeting hosted by the Duke of York with leaders of British industry to discuss further trade and investment opportunities.