Qatar and France have affirmed their readiness to work jointly to support projects contributing to economic stability and recovery in Syria, in close cooperation with the Syrian government. This was stated in a joint statement issued today, Wednesday, and published by the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the "X" platform, on the occasion of French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Doha.
Both sides praised cooperation in the field of civil protection, particularly the joint support for the Syrian Civil Defense, and affirmed continuing coordination on regional files, which contributes to supporting stability and sustainable development. Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the French President emphasized the importance of strengthening the bilateral partnership and intensifying cooperation in the fields of defense, security, energy, economy, and investment, as well as academic and cultural exchange, and political and diplomatic coordination, during Macron's state visit to Doha on October 20 and 21.
Calls to de-escalate and protect energy security
On regional issues, both sides condemned Iranian attacks on countries in the region and called for intensifying diplomatic efforts to contain tensions and de-escalate, affirming the necessity of reaching a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear file, and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz without restrictions or fees, and maintaining energy security and the stability of its supplies.
Reaffirming support for the two-state solution
Qatar and France renewed their support for the two-state solution, which ensures the establishment of an independent Palestinian state living side by side with Israel in peace and security. They also affirmed their rejection of the annexation of the West Bank. The two countries called for an end to Israeli settlement activities and settler violence, and stressed the necessity of implementing the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and delivering humanitarian aid to the population urgently, safely, and without obstacles.
Supporting Lebanon's sovereignty and stability
The two countries affirmed their support for Lebanon's sovereignty and stability, emphasizing the importance of continuing international support for Lebanese authorities and armed forces, and implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which contributes to restoring Lebanese sovereignty over its entire territory. Macron began a Gulf tour on October 19, which included Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, and concluded in Doha on the 21st.
According to the French Presidency, the tour aimed to strengthen economic and defense partnerships, diversify energy supplies and transport routes, and support efforts to restore stability and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, amid the repercussions of the regional crisis on energy markets and the global economy.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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