Paris: The State of Qatar took part in the ongoing “Vision Golfe” Forum in Paris, which saw the participation of GCC and French ministers, senior officials, and decision-makers. The forum gathered representatives from both public and private sectors, alongside experts in economics, trade, and infrastructure development.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Qatari delegation was led by HE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Dr. Ahmad bin Mohammed Al Sayed. Qatar’s involvement in the forum underscores its commitment to fortifying the strategic partnership with France and highlights the significance of economic dialogue on regional and global matters of shared interest.
In his address, HE the Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs underscored the forum’s role as a critical platform for enhancing GCC-French relations and expanding opportunities for economic and trade collaboration, particularly in infrastructure, supply chains, global trade, and sustainable economy. He emphasized Qatar’s position as a proactive strategic partner within the GCC-French cooperation framework, supported by strong bilateral relations.
HE Dr. Al Sayed pointed out the substantial growth in economic relations between Qatar and France, noting that the average bilateral trade volume reached QR 11 billion over the past five years. Currently, 574 French companies operate across various sectors in Qatar, reflecting the robustness of this economic partnership. He further highlighted key economic performance indicators that demonstrate global investor confidence in Qatar’s investment environment, which continues to focus on economic diversification and private sector partnerships.
The Minister invited French companies and investors to explore opportunities in Qatar’s free zones, Qatar Financial Centre, and Qatar Science and Technology Park, citing the incentives and competitive advantages these platforms offer. He reiterated Qatar’s dedication to enhancing investment infrastructure and fostering sustainable partnerships beneficial to both nations.
HE Dr. Al Sayed concluded by reaffirming Qatar’s significant role in promoting regional security and stability through active diplomacy and international partnerships. During the forum, he also met with several French officials, including HE Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad Laurent Saint-Martin, to discuss ways to further strengthen economic and trade cooperation between Qatar and France.
The forum featured strategic dialogue sessions on future development priorities, covering topics such as AI, technology and innovation, water and waste management, energy in the GCC region, transport links expansion, global partnerships, and technology-driven healthcare.