Doha: HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani announced that the State of Qatar and the United Kingdom have signed a letter of intent to cooperate in peace, reconciliation, and conflict resolution, within the framework of the Qatar-UK Strategic Dialogue. During a joint press conference with HE UK Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs David Lammy, His Excellency stated that the letter of intent will enhance technical cooperation between the two countries to develop capabilities in these areas and support international efforts to achieve peace.
According to Qatar News Agency, the first joint development working group has begun efforts to build on bilateral initiatives to address humanitarian and global health challenges. This includes creating joint development initiatives and doubling the joint financing initiative for development cooperation to USD 100 million. The cooperation will focus on high-priority countries such as the Gaza Strip, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, and Bangladesh.
Since the first Strategic Dialogue, the Qatar-UK partnership has seen efforts to deepen cooperation across various levels. The visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to London in December marked a historic milestone in the bilateral relations, reinforcing the commitment to strengthen the partnership. The launch of the 2nd Strategic Dialogue under the theme "Partners for the Future" was highlighted as another important step in advancing the partnership.
The Strategic Dialogue has led to the formation of eight joint working groups focusing on different areas, including technology, science, innovation, and health. These groups aim to develop practical steps toward the shared aspirations of Qatar and the UK, particularly in advancing cooperation in modern technology and artificial intelligence to support healthcare and health data.
Qatar and the UK continue to prioritize expanding cooperation in education, culture, heritage, sports, health, research, innovation, and genomics. The partnership is considered more critical than ever due to rising international security risks. Qatar's investments in the UK, exceeding GBP 40 billion, are seen as pivotal for economic growth and development, benefiting both nations.
The Prime Minister also addressed the Qatari investments in the UK, emphasizing the role these investments play in supporting the British economy, creating job opportunities, and fostering innovation. The volume of trade between the two countries reached GBP 1.6 billion in 2024, further cementing their economic ties.
The distinguished relationship between the Qatari and British peoples is illustrated by the educational exchanges and residency of British nationals in Qatar. In light of ongoing regional conflicts, His Excellency expressed concern about the Israeli aggression in Palestinian territories and the Gaza Strip, calling for de-escalation and the unblocking of humanitarian aid.
Qatar remains committed to supporting peace negotiations, including those in Syria, between the United States and Iran, and in Ukraine. These efforts are vital given the humanitarian crises in regions like Sudan and Yemen, with a shared vision for peace and stability being crucial for affected populations.