Tobias Ellwood co-chairs the inaugural Qatar-UK Sharaka dialogue
The first meeting of the biannual Qatar-UK “Sharaka” bilateral dialogue took place in Doha on 26 February 2015.
Sharaka Meeting - (Courtesy of MoFA Qatar)
The meeting was co-chaired by the UK Minister for the Middle East, Tobias Ellwood MP and Qatar’s Foreign Minister’s Assistant for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Mohammed Al Rumaihi.
Mr Ellwood and H.E. Mohammed Al Rumaihi, together with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the British Embassy, discussed a wide range of bilateral issues including security, defence, trade, investment, development, education and culture. Both sides emphasised the importance of reinforcing the Qatar-UK bilateral relationship across all sectors.
The Ministers also exchanged views on recent political and security developments in the Middle East. It was agreed that Qatar and the UK would continue to work closely together to resolve ongoing conflicts in the region, tackle terrorism and counter violence and extremism.
Speaking after the meeting, Minister Ellwood said:
I am delighted to return to Qatar and co-chair the inaugural “Sharaka” government to government dialogue meeting. The UK and Qatar have long enjoyed a close partnership based on deep historical links and shared interests. Today’s meeting again demonstrates our excellent bilateral relationship across the board including prosperity, trade and investment, and security. The twice yearly Sharaka meetings will be instrumental in maintaining an open and sustained dialogue between our countries. The UK looks forward to hosting the second Sharaka meeting later this year.