Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and French President Emmanuel Macron held official talks on Tuesday at Lusail Palace in Doha. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in security, defense, and other key sectors.
According to a statement from the Amiri Diwan, the two leaders also reviewed major regional developments. Sheikh Tamim welcomed the French president, stating the visit reflected the strength of ties between Doha and Paris. He expressed hope for closer collaboration across multiple fields.
Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to broadening its partnership with Qatar. Ahead of the formal talks, the two leaders held a separate meeting to confer on bilateral relations and broader regional issues.
The French leader arrived in Doha from Bahrain on a regional tour across the Gulf that included stops in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. The French presidency stated the three-day tour, running from October 19 to 21, was designed to strengthen strategic and economic partnerships with Gulf nations.
Another primary objective was to support efforts aimed at restoring regional stability and safeguarding freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The French presidency noted these diplomatic efforts unfold against a backdrop of severe regional tensions.
Those tensions follow the war launched by the US and Israel against Iran on February 28. In response to the military campaign, Tehran launched missile and drone attacks across the region and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz.
Following the closure of the strategic waterway, Washington imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports. The ongoing disruptions have significantly impacted regional security and maritime trade routes.
