Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed ways to strengthen economic, investment, and defence cooperation as part of broader efforts to deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations.
The high-level talks took place at Lusail Palace in Doha, according to an official statement issued by the Amiri Diwan, the office of the emir.
The two heads of state reviewed bilateral relations and examined mechanisms to broaden cooperation across security, defence, and other vital sectors whilst addressing pressing regional developments.
Sheikh Tamim welcomed Macron's visit, noting that it reflects the strength of bilateral ties, and expressed hope for closer cooperation across diverse fields.
Macron reaffirmed France's commitment to expanding its partnership with Qatar, the statement confirmed.
The two leaders also held a separate preliminary meeting ahead of formal discussions to review bilateral relations and developments in the wider region.
Hormuz shipping tensions
Macron arrived in the Qatari capital from Bahrain as part of a broader Gulf tour that also took in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.
The French presidency stated that the October 19–21, tour aims to consolidate strategic and economic partnerships with Gulf states, alongside supporting multilateral initiatives to restore regional stability and safeguard freedom of navigation through the critical Strait of Hormuz.
The high-level diplomatic engagement comes against a backdrop of acute regional instability following the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28.
Tehran responded with sweeping missile and drone barrages across the region and effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz.
