Qatar and UK Strengthen Historic Partnership with Ambitious Future Framework

London, The Gulf Observer: A joint statement was issued following the State Visit of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, to the United Kingdom. The statement marks a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations.

During the visit, the UK Prime Minister hosted the Amir at 10 Downing Street, where both leaders expressed their appreciation for the historic partnership between Qatar and the UK, which has flourished over the past decade. They announced the creation of an ambitious Future Framework designed to strengthen the relationship, addressing key areas of cooperation and outlining a strategic direction for the future.

The new Future Framework will build upon the priorities established in the 2010 UK-Qatar Dynamic Partnership and subsequent agreements. The framework identifies four primary areas for collaboration:

1. A Generational Security Partnership
2. An Expanded Economic Partnership centered on mutual growth
3. Joint Action and Leadership on Global Issues
4. Connecting the people of the two nations

A key component of this partnership is the establishment of the UK-Qatar Strategic Dialogue, which will be co-chaired by the UK Foreign Secretary and the Qatari Prime Minister. The Dialogue will facilitate discussions on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, technological innovation, and global challenges. The first meeting of this strategic dialogue is scheduled for Spring 2025.

A Generational Security Partnership

The UK and Qatar have committed to advancing their defense cooperation with a focus on air, land, and maritime defense capabilities. The collaboration will include expanding the Typhoon and Hawk partnerships, establishing a 50-year defense land partnership, and further developing joint military exercises. The two nations will also enhance their cooperation in cyber defense and law enforcement, including the signing of a new cybersecurity memorandum of understanding (MoU).

An Expanded Economic Partnership

With trade between the UK and Qatar reaching £6.6 billion in 2023, the two countries aim to further boost economic ties. The UK is a key destination for Qatari investments, with more than £40 billion invested across sectors such as energy, financial services, and technology. Qatar is also committed to contributing to the UK’s energy security through long-term agreements in LNG. Additionally, the UK and Qatar are exploring a groundbreaking climate technology partnership with Rolls-Royce, with an initial commitment of £1 billion.

Joint Action and Leadership on Global Challenges

The UK and Qatar reaffirmed their shared commitment to global peace and security. They pledged to continue working together to resolve conflicts, including the situation in Gaza, and to support Ukraine’s sovereignty. Their joint efforts extend to global humanitarian initiatives, with a focus on sustainable development goals, global health challenges, and the provision of aid to regions in need, such as Gaza, Syria, and Somalia.

Connecting Our People

The two nations have placed significant importance on strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties. Following Qatar’s successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022, there has been a marked increase in bilateral tourism and business exchanges. Over 147,000 British nationals now reside in Qatar, while the UK remains a preferred destination for Qataris seeking opportunities in work, study, and tourism.

The joint statement underscores the UK and Qatar’s shared vision of a future where both nations work hand-in-hand to address global challenges, foster mutual economic growth, and enhance cooperation across all sectors. The partnership between the two countries is poised to deepen, with initiatives that will benefit both nations and the global community.