In a significant occasion reflecting the depth of relations between the UAE and Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, chaired the seventh session of the Joint Committee between the two countries at the Zayed National Museum. The event witnessed an exchange of views and ideas aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation across various fields.
Warm Welcome and Shared Aspirations
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan opened the meeting with a welcoming speech in which he praised His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and the participating delegation. He emphasized the importance of holding the seventh session of the Joint Higher Committee, which reflects the strong brotherly ties between the UAE and Qatar. He stated, “I am pleased to welcome you to your country, the United Arab Emirates, where this meeting reflects our shared will to enhance cooperation among brothers.”
Regional Coordination and Contemporary Challenges
He pointed out the significant challenges facing the region, including Iranian aggressions that cast shadows over the security and stability of Gulf countries. He affirmed that “enhancing coordination between our countries at all levels is no longer an option but a necessity.” He also stressed the importance of this meeting as a step expressing the commitment to achieving mutual interests and fruitful cooperation.
Prospects for Joint Cooperation
Regarding economic relations, he noted that non-oil bilateral trade between the UAE and Qatar has seen significant growth, reaching $13 billion in 2025. He expressed his hope to expand this partnership in various fields. He also highlighted the importance of strategic connectivity and economic integration to enhance mutual interests in vital sectors such as energy.
Signing Agreements and Historical Milestones
The meeting concluded with His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani signing the minutes of the meeting, along with a series of agreements and memoranda of understanding. Among these agreements were the Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding in the fields of agriculture and food security. Both parties indicated that these steps would contribute to enhancing and developing cooperative relations between the two countries in areas of mutual interest.
In this positive spirit, the UAE and Qatar continue to strengthen their brotherly relations and collaborative efforts, sending a strong message about the importance of cooperation in the face of contemporary challenges.