PM meeting with Emir of Qatar: 15 September 2016
Theresa May held bilateral talks with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and discussed the strength of the UK-Qatari relationship.
A Downing Street spokesperson said:
This afternoon the Prime Minister hosted His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, for a bilateral meeting at Downing Street.
The Prime Minister and Sheikh Tamim spoke of the strength of the UK-Qatari relationship and agreed to explore ways build on these existing ties, particularly in the areas of investment, education, science and research and defence.
The Prime Minister said that as Qatar continues with its efforts to create a sustainable economy and improve living standards the UK is a natural partner, and that there is much experience and expertise that we are able to share.
The Prime Minister spoke of her drive to create an economy that works for all and to attract investment across the UK, not just into London and the South-East. In this context they discussed the upcoming 2017 UK-Qatar Trade and Investment Conference in Birmingham and the potential for investment in Birmingham and the wider Midlands.
The Prime Minister and Sheikh Tamim agreed that despite the vote to leave the EU the fundamentals of the UK economy remain strong and that Britain is an attractive place to do business.
They spoke about the situation in Syria, agreeing that a political transition away from Asad is an absolute prerequisite for fostering stability in the country.
Finally, Sheikh Tamim updated the Prime Minister on efforts to improve working conditions for construction workers as Qatar prepares to host the 2022 World Cup, and the Prime Minister offered to share UK expertise in this area.