Qatar’s Emir to Arrive in Britain for Two-Day State Visit
Background
Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, will arrive in Britain on Monday for a two-day state visit hosted by King Charles. During the visit, the Emir will also meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is seeking to deepen ties with wealthy Gulf states.
Delegation and Agenda
According to Qatar’s news agency, the Emir will travel with an official delegation and the country’s Prime Minister and foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. The state visit formally begins on Tuesday and comes as Britain’s Labour government searches for co-investors to help fund its plans for new infrastructure, including in cleaner energy systems.
Trade Deal and Economic Benefits
Starmer is also seeking to tie up long-running talks on a trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which comprises countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Britain’s business and trade department estimates that a free trade deal with the GCC could boost the UK economy by £1.6 billion (US$2.03 billion) over the long run.
Investments and Sovereign Wealth Fund
The wealthy Gulf nation has several investments in Britain, with the state’s sovereign wealth fund, The Qatar Investment Authority, owning stakes in Barclays, Sainsbury’s, Canary Wharf, and others.
Previous Meetings and Schedule
Charles and the Emir, who has visited Britain on eight occasions between 2014 and 2023, most recently met at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in December last year. The bilateral meeting with Starmer is scheduled to take place on Wednesday at the prime minister’s official residence, 10 Downing Street. Starmer is also expected to travel to the Gulf region this month.
Ceremonial Events
The Emir will be greeted by Prince William and Princess Catherine on Tuesday morning before being formally welcomed by Charles and Queen Camilla at the Horse Guards Parade. He will then join the royals in a carriage procession. A visit to Westminster Abbey and a state banquet is also on the agenda before the Emir departs on Wednesday evening.
Conclusion
The state visit by Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is an opportunity for Britain to strengthen its ties with a key partner in the Gulf region. The visit is expected to focus on trade, infrastructure, and investment, with potential benefits for the UK economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the Emir’s visit?
A: The visit is aimed at strengthening ties between Qatar and Britain, with a focus on trade, infrastructure, and investment.
Q: What is the estimated economic benefit of a free trade deal with the GCC?
A: Britain’s business and trade department estimates that a free trade deal with the GCC could boost the UK economy by £1.6 billion (US$2.03 billion) over the long run.
Q: What are the Emir’s previous visits to Britain?
A: The Emir has visited Britain on eight occasions between 2014 and 2023, most recently meeting with Charles at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in December last year.