Saudi Defense Minister meets with the Emir of Qatar: Discussing regional developments
In the context of strengthening joint Gulf action and coordinating positions on regional and international issues, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, received His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Saudi Minister of Defense, in the Qatari capital, Doha. This meeting affirms the deep-rooted fraternal relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar, and the keenness of both leaderships to further develop these relations.
Details of the meeting and the messages exchanged
During the reception, the Saudi Minister of Defense conveyed the greetings of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister, to the Emir of Qatar, along with their wishes for his continued health and happiness, and for the brotherly Qatari people's further progress and prosperity. For his part, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad conveyed his greetings and appreciation to the Saudi leadership, emphasizing the strength of the historical ties that bind the two brotherly countries.
The context of Saudi-Qatari relations
This visit is of particular importance given the significant momentum in Saudi-Qatari relations since the historic Al-Ula Summit in January 2021, which established a new phase of cooperation and integration. The past period has witnessed an exchange of high-level visits and the activation of the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council, contributing to the strengthening of partnerships in various political, economic, and security fields, serving the interests of both nations and reinforcing the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Regional challenges and security issues
During the meeting, the two sides discussed the latest developments in the region, which is undergoing critical junctures requiring the highest levels of coordination and consultation. Security and military issues topped the agenda amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, including the war in the Gaza Strip and its humanitarian and political repercussions, tensions in the Red Sea, and other pressing matters that directly impact Gulf national security.
The importance of military and defense coordination
Defense cooperation is a cornerstone of relations between Riyadh and Doha, with the Saudi Defense Minister discussing with the Emir of Qatar ways to bolster security and stability in the region. This coordination stems from a shared vision that the security of the Gulf states is indivisible, and that current challenges necessitate a unified approach and concerted efforts to confront any potential threats, as well as working with the international community to de-escalate tensions and prioritize dialogue and diplomacy.
At the conclusion of the meeting, it was emphasized that consultation and ongoing coordination between the two brotherly countries will continue in all regional and international forums, in order to contribute to achieving the aspirations of the peoples of the region for security, peace and sustainable development.
