Qatar's Emir visits France, strengthening bilateral ties and economic opportunities

Qatar's Emir, Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, embarked on a two-day state visit to France on Tuesday, marking the first such visit by a Qatari emir in 15 years and the first for Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani since ascending to the throne in 2013. The visit underscores the significance of the relationship between Qatar and France, with the Élysée Palace highlighting the deep ties between the two countries.

On Wednesday, Prime Ministers Gabriel Attal and Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani will co-chair an Economic Forum focusing on investment opportunities between the two nations in artificial intelligence, decarbonization, semiconductors, biotechnology, and healthcare.

France stands as the leading European investor in Qatar, with investments totaling nine billion dollars in energy, aerospace, infrastructure, and tourism sectors. Additionally, it ranks among the top five recipient countries of Qatari investments.

The two countries announced an agreement involving Qatari investment commitments totaling 10 billion euros in the French economy by 2030.

During the visit, both countries will also reinvigorate their cultural relations, with the forthcoming visit of French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati to Qatar.