The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary have arrived in Qatar
to drive forward efforts to bring the conflict in Gaza to an end
and to press for de-escalation in the region.
In a joint visit, the Foreign Secretary – in what will be his second
trip to the Middle East since becoming Foreign Secretary – and
the Defence Secretary will reiterate the UK's support
to Qatar for the country's role in mediating and end to the war
in Gaza – including efforts to deliver an immediate ceasefire
agreed by both sides.
They will reiterate the UK's calls for de-escalation in the wider
region, warning that rising tensions and destabilisation would be
in no one's interests. This follows the Foreign Secretary's
condemnation of the strikes in the occupied Golan Heights at the
weekend which tragically claimed at least twelve lives.
Foreign Secretary said:
Escalation and destabilisation are in no one's interests.
It is absolutely vital that we engage closely with partners like
Qatar, who play a key role in mediating the conflict in Gaza, so
that we can bring this devastating war to an end.
The UK and Qatar have a long-standing and close partnership, and
we will also look to build lasting stability and security in the
region, and advance our shared priorities, like deepening
economic ties, to drive UK growth and seize the opportunities of
the clean energy transition.
Defence Secretary said:
De-escalation must be our primary focus as this region stands at
a crossroads. The loss of innocent life in recent weeks and
months is unbearable. This has to end.
All sides must step back from conflict and step-up
diplomacy. We will work with important partners like Qatar as our
government leads a renewed push for peace.
During their time in Qatar, the Foreign Secretary and Defence
Secretary will meet with UK Armed Forces personnel who are
helping to protect UK security interests and support regional
stability.
They are expected to meet with the Emir of Qatar, HH Sheikh Amir
Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Prime Minister and Foreign
Minister, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Deputy
Prime Minister and Defence Minister, HE Dr Khalid Al Attiyah,
where the Ministers will recommit to building upon the strong
UK-Qatar relationship, including growth and security.
