2 days ago
Qatar, France support int'l conferenceas pathway to solving Palestine issue
They emphasised that the High-Level International Conference on the peaceful resolution of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-State solution—mandated by UNGA resolution A/RES/79/81—would contribute to this objective by outlining a credible roadmap for its implementation. This would enable the two states to coexist peacefully within their internationally recognised borders. Both ministers reiterated that the future Palestinian state would hold sole responsibility for the rule of law, including policing primacy.
On Syria, the PM and the French minister acknowledged the historic transition process underway in Syria. They emphasised the importance of an inclusive political dispensation that protects the rights of all irrespective of ethnicity, sect, religion or gender. They reiterated their support for the reconstruction of a new Syria - free, stable and sovereign -- that respects all components of society. They agreed that stability and security in Syria is paramount for all its citizens as well as the surrounding region. To that end both Ministers committed to work together wherever possible to provide humanitarian assistance, as well as support economic development, and long-term reconstruction. They welcomed the lifting of international sanctions on Syria's economy and encouraged foreign investments in the country. Qatar welcomed French support for the recent EU decision to lift economic sanctions on Syria and the recent meeting between President Macron and Syria's interim President Ahmad Al Sharaa.
On Lebanon, Qatar welcomed the hosting by France of the International Conference in Support of Lebanon's People and Sovereignty in October 2024. Progress to political and economic reform in Lebanon is welcomed by both countries.
Qatar and France reaffirm their support for the territorial integrity and sovereign rights of the Lebanese people. Both ministers called on all parties to honour the commitments made under the ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024. In this regard, they urged the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, the complete deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and continued support for efforts to maintain security and uphold the State's exclusive control over arms. These efforts are to be assisted by the UN interim force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and monitored through the supervision mechanism established under the November 2024 ceasefire agreement, in which France, alongside the United States, plays a participatory role.
They emphasised their support to the process of change that has begun under the new Lebanese government, aimed at putting Lebanon back on the path of reconstruction, recovery and stability. They expressed their continuing support to the Lebanese Armed Forces and to the UNIFIL whose role is essential to guarantee the stability of South Lebanon.
On Iran, both ministers reaffirmed Qatar and France's support for a diplomatic solution that leads to an agreement addressing and resolving all international concerns regarding Iran's nuclear activities, in exchange for sanctions relief. This, they noted, is vital for preserving the global non-proliferation framework as well as ensuring stability and de-escalation in the Gulf region. They reiterated their support for the ongoing talks between Iran and the US, and called on Iran to fully and effectively cooperate with the legitimate requests and activities of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
On Rwanda and eastern DRC, the PM and the French minister emphasised their shared commitment to peace, stability and security in the Great Lakes region. France commended Qatar's mediation efforts between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and between Congolese authorities and AFC/M23. They stressed the need for parties to continue working towards the conclusion of a ceasefire, as called upon by UN Security Council Resolution 2773 (2025). Following its participation, along with the U.S., DRC, Rwanda and Togo, to the Doha meeting on April 30, France recalled its continued support to Qatar's peace efforts.
On Sudan, both ministers resolved to further work together to address the devastating conflict in Sudan. Qatar and France recalled the UN Security Council Resolution 2736 (2024) demanding that the Rapid Support Forces halt the siege of El Fasher and calling for an immediate de-escalation. They reaffirmed their support to the unity of the country and called on the warring parties to immediately cease hostilities, abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and guarantee full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access.
On economy, trade and investments, Qatar and France emphasized the importance of their growing economic, trade and investment partnership, with a total trade of more than €1.3 billion in 2024. The Ministers highlighted that bilateral trade makes a significant contribution to supporting jobs, innovation, and economic development in both countries.
The two ministers reviewed progress on Qatar's 2024 landmark engagement to invest 10 billion euros into key sectors of the French economy. Qatar's investment will cover mutually beneficial sectors ranging from food security, digital economy, AI and IT, semiconductors, energy transition, space, Intellectual Property, health, tourism and hospitality and culture. They also welcomed the forthcoming Qatar-France Business Forum as an opportunity for mutual trade growth and investment. They discussed ways to further strengthen their investment partnership and underlined their willingness to facilitate cooperation between the Qatari and French private sectors. They also explored areas of common interest, such as fiscal policy, sustainable finance and public-private partnerships (PPPs).
Qatar's innovative investment in France's semiconductor industry highlights its role in key technology subsectors, including supply chain developments that are also propelling digital and green transformations across vital industries such as AI, mobility, and consumer technology.
Both sides discussed ways to further develop their trade and investment partnership, through a Roadmap focused on strategic areas in alignment with the framework of the economic diversification goals stated by Qatar's National Vision 2030 and in accordance with the economic plan 'France 2030.'
The French minister praised Qatar's ongoing commitment to ensure continued and reliable supplies of energy to Europe, including France and thus contributing to the country's energy security.
Qatar and France reaffirmed the importance of the defence and security as a foundation stone of their was illustrated by the increase in official-level visits in the last 12 months, and the deepening coordination on an operational level.
The ministers welcomed the implementation of joint defence operational partnership including joint planning, training and military exercises -- most recently the Pegase, Al Salam, and Al Koot exercises -- as well as joint projects in defence industries and innovation and ongoing defence acquisitions including cooperation through both nations' air forces, facilitated by the common possession of Rafale combat aircrafts.
They praised the strategic convergences between Qatar and France, which contribute to enhancing bilateral interactions between the two military institutions. Qatar and France are keen to explore ways to develop new synergies between their armed forces for future defence capabilities.
They also explored ways to build on existing links and expand activities on common strategic interests particularly as they contribute to de-escalation and security in the Gulf and the Red Sea.
Both Ministers welcomed the robust and long-lasting partnership between their respective security forces, including cooperation and important knowledge-sharing on Mega Sports Events, Crisis Management and Major Event Management, Air and Aviation Security, Cybersecurity and Digital Investigations, and mutual professionalization and capacity-building.
They commended the strong friendship and mutual trust between the French Gendarmerie and Qatar's Internal Security Force, Lekhwiya, as they mark the 20th anniversary of their cooperation in 2025. They also welcomed the development of a strategic partnership between the French and Qatari national police forces, including the establishment of a High Police Committee.
Both Ministers emphasised that the fight against terrorism remains a key bilateral realm for cooperation. They said that such cooperation is crucial in prevention and countering terrorism and ensuring the safety of their citizens. These efforts reflect the need for a coordinated approach to deal with an ever-evolving set of terrorist threats that transcend national borders. They also agreed to continue their strong partnership in cybersecurity and in combating terrorism.
