Foreign Office minister co-chairs 5th Sharaka Dialogue with Qatar

The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Office Minister Dr Andrew Murrison and Qatari Deputy Foreign Minister His Excellency Soltan bin Saad Al Muraikhi.

The two Ministers discussed key issues in which UK and Qatar partner most: trade, investment, education and foreign policy cooperation.

Both sides emphasised the importance of doing more together across a wide range of traditional and new sectors, with a focus on Qatar's 2022 World Cup.

Minister Murrison restated the UK's commitment to partner with Qatar in its 2030 National Vision. The Ministers also discussed regional security developments, and agreed to continue close cooperation to resolve ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa.

Dr Murrison said:

I was delighted to attend the fifth Sharaka dialogue with Qatar, with whom the UK has enjoyed a close partnership based on deep historical links and a dynamic contemporary relationship.

Today's open and active dialogue between our two countries, proves again the clear value in the UK and Qatar friendship and deepening cooperation across a wide range of fields. Our partnerships in education, trade and investment are essential for both economies. The close diplomatic and security cooperation we enjoy makes our countries and the region safer.

I reaffirmed the UK's commitment to supporting Qatar to achieve its ambitious 2030 National Vision, and to deliver an exciting, successful and safe 2022 World Cup. We agreed to further strengthen our ties in economic prosperity and social development.

Both sides should be very pleased with what we've achieved today and the UK looks forward to working with Qatar on these busy and important bilateral and regional agendas.