Joint Statement Highlights Outcomes Of Amir Of Qatar's Visit To Saudi Arabia

The visit of Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Saudi Arabia concluded with a joint statement. This visit was at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The statement highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations. During the visit, official talks were held at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, focusing on cooperation and development in various fields.

Both leaders praised the positive outcomes of their reciprocal visits, which have enhanced cooperation levels. The eighth meeting of the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council took place during this visit. It was co-chaired by the Crown Prince and the Amir, with council members present. They reviewed bilateral relations and achievements within the council's framework, emphasizing continued support for joint coordination in key areas.

The leaders noted significant economic ties and a remarkable increase in trade between their countries. In 2024, bilateral trade reached $930.3 million, marking a 634% rise from 2021. They stressed the importance of diversifying trade and overcoming challenges to capitalize on opportunities within Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030.

They also welcomed sustainable investment cooperation through partnerships between investment funds and companies. Emphasizing reciprocal visits by officials, they supported holding investment meetings and business forums to foster economic integration.

Both sides emphasized enhancing global energy market stability and supply security for all energy sources. They expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in electricity, renewable energy, and energy efficiency projects. The leaders agreed on developing energy supply chains and enabling collaboration between companies to maximize local resource utilization.

They also discussed climate policies within international agreements, focusing on emissions rather than sources. Cooperation in digital economy, innovation, industry, mining, youth programs, education, media credibility, cybersecurity, and health were also prioritized.

Defense Partnership and Security Cooperation

The leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening defense partnerships and coordinating positions on regional challenges. They praised existing security cooperation in various fields such as passenger security, cybersecurity conferences participation, border security, combating drugs, extremism, terrorism financing, and crime prevention.

They expressed their commitment to further enhance this cooperation for regional stability. Both sides welcomed the signing of an agreement for a high-speed electric railway connecting Riyadh and Doha via Dammam and Hofuf. This strategic project aligns with both nations' visions for 2030.

International Coordination Efforts

Saudi Arabia and Qatar reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining international peace through continued coordination on regional issues of mutual interest. The Saudi side commended Qatar's ratification of the Global Water Organization charter aimed at addressing water challenges globally.

The visit concluded with Amir Sheikh Tamim expressing gratitude for the warm reception by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Crown Prince reciprocated best wishes for Sheikh Tamim's health and Qatari people's prosperity.

With inputs from SPA