A Downing Street Spokesperson said:
“The Prime Minister held bilateral talks earlier today with the
Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at Downing Street,
covering mutual prosperity, defence and security cooperation,
regional stability, and wider foreign policy issues.
“They agreed that the trade and investment relationship between
the UK and Qatar was already strong, welcoming the fact that half
of Qatar’s 2017 £5 billion investment commitment had already been
allocated to projects in the UK. They agreed a shared desire to
see investment flows both ways continuing to grow, noting the
significant commercial opportunities on offer for both countries
across a wide range of sectors. The Prime Minister welcomed
Qatar’s commitment to continue to invest not just in London but
across the country.
“They agreed the bilateral defence and security relationship was
also strong and growing, noting the recent £6 billion Typhoon
deal. They discussed how the UK could continue to support Qatar
to deliver a safe and successful World Cup 2022, with the Prime
Minister highlighting our particular expertise in this area. They
agreed to intensify joint counter-terrorism work, recognising the
importance of tackling the root causes of terrorism including the
ideology that underpins it.
“They discussed a range of regional security issues and the Prime
Minister reiterated our strong desire to see Gulf Cooperation
Council unity restored at the earliest possible opportunity,
observing that Gulf security is our security.
“They also discussed Russia, agreeing on the importance of
continuing to approach Russia from a position of strength and
unity. They noted the particular importance of the international
community continuing to work together to stand firm against
malign activity, and to protect the global rules and norms.”
