LONDON: HE the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom David Lammy expressed his appreciation for the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to the United Kingdom, noting the deep, close, and very important friendship between the two sides. According to Qatar News Agency, the British Foreign Secretary emphasized that Qatar is "one of the UK's most significant trading partners in the Middle East. Qatar is a critical partner on defense, and of course it's a world leader in global mediation, working with the UK on key foreign policy challenges." He highlighted that HH the Amir's visit is an opportunity to celebrate the deep, long-lasting, and sustaining bilateral relationship, especially as it is the first state visit under the new British government. Lammy further elaborated that the UK-Qatar defense and security cooperation is a fundamental and important pillar of the strategic relationship, pointing out that the joint operations conducted between the two countries months ago are central to sec urity across the Middle East. He expressed his pride in the collaboration between the Qatar Amiri Air Force and the Royal Air Force within a joint typhoon squadron based at RAF Coningsby, marking it as the first UK joint air squadron since the Second World War. HE the Foreign Secretary stressed the importance of avoiding regional conflicts or escalations, acknowledging Qatar's strategic role in mediating key international policy areas. He noted Qatar's involvement in mediation efforts in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza and Afghanistan, and its role in addressing issues in Ukraine and Venezuela. Lammy pointed out the UK's deep ties across the Gulf, emphasizing Qatar's significance as a key partner in fostering enduring security and prosperity partnerships. He also mentioned the UK's intention to deepen mutually beneficial trade partnerships across the Gulf, highlighting ongoing efforts to establish a GCC free trade area with Qatar's support. Lammy concluded by expressing the UK's eagerness to enhance j oint action with Qatar on international and humanitarian issues, particularly in humanitarian and developmental aid. He anticipated further partnerships and cooperation across various fields, including climate and clean energy initiatives.
