QNA/Doha
French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius described Qatari-French relations as deep-rooted and distinguished, covering political, defence, economic and cultural fields, saying that excellence in political ties between the two countries has created a suitable atmosphere for developing the relations in other areas.
In an exclusive interview with Al-Sharq newspaper before heading to Doha, accompanying French President Francois Hollande on an official visit, Fabius said that Hollande’s visit to Doha is a perfect example of these distinguished relations and it is also crystallising our strategic partnership and our mutual trust.
He expressed hope that France will witness further Qatari investments, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
He also said that Qatar knows that France is one of the world’s five superpowers and at the same time it is not biased to any camp and has clear principles. Therefore, in foreign policy, France’s voice is loudly heard.
On France’s stance towards military operation against Houthi group in Yemen, which is led by Gulf States, Fabius said that after Houthis seized Sanaa and dissolved parliament they tried to topple Yemen’s president and to control the city of Aden, then the legitimate president demanded an emergency intervention to preserve his country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and this what has been done by the alliance, in accordance with international law.
France stands side by side with its partners in the region in order to restore Yemen’s stability and its territorial integrity, he stated.
Regarding Syria, Fabius noted that France has moved to promote a political transition based on the Geneva communique.
