Emir of Qatar on State Visit to France

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and his wife Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser al-Misnned are on a state visit to France until Wednesday. The visit is meant to cement ties between the two countries.

This is the third time the Emir has been to France. In 2007 and 2008, he was a special guest for France’s National Day.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy hailed the relationship between France and Qatar as “long-standing and ideal.” He pointed out that many French companies increasingly have branches in the Gulf state.

Sarkozy also mentioned the need for the two countries to boost scientific and cultural ties. He praised Sheikha Mozah’s promotional efforts through the Qatar Foundation of Education, Science and Community Development.

After initial meetings with each other, the Emir and Sarkozy had a glitzy state dinner at Elysees Palace Monday night with their wives dressed to the nines.

Once this state visit is over, both countries would hopefully gain something from one another. France is looking towards Qatar for gas development, and imports Qatari nuclear technology and security equipment. Qatar meanwhile, sees French bilateral ties as a way to diversify its economy.