In a joint press conference with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian, HE Sheikh Mohamed said that the dialogue included several political and economic issues and international developments, in addition to issues of common interest, including Chadian reconciliation, political developments in Lebanon and Afghanistan, the Palestinian cause, Libya and the Iranian nuclear file, in addition to affirming the need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Ukraine and respect for international law and international humanitarian law during this crisis.
He described the relationship between Qatar and France as a strategic and distinguished relationship in all fields, praising the strides taken by the two countries to develop and strengthen these close historical and strategic relations, noting that the two countries celebrate in 2022 the 50th anniversary of its founding. HE the Foreign Minister expressed Qatar's thanks to everyone who contributed and continues to contribute to the development of these distinguished relations.
He said Qatar is committed to deepen this partnership in all fields to serve common interests that aim to enhance security and stability in the region, stressing the importance of the economic partnership between the two countries in various fields, including investment, energy, trade, cultural, sports, and educational co-operation. HE Sheikh Mohamed said that both parties affirm the importance of continuing and developing this partnership to broader horizons.
Welcoming the French minister in Doha, he expressed Qatar's aspiration to translate this discussion into tangible results. Jean-Yves Le Drian said that Qatar is a friendly country and reliable partner that has a strategic partnership with France. He added that France is working with Qatar to meet the new challenges in the energy supply and food security for the continent. He noted that Monday's talks dealt with the situation in Lebanon, adding that they agreed that the restoration of security there would pass through the country's implementation of reforms.
He said that global conditions were turned upside down after Russia's attack on Ukraine, and considered the Russian attack on Ukraine a direct threat to interests in the European continent, adding that international law cannot be selective, and therefore France condemns Russian violations of international law.
