Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is set to arrive in the United Kingdom on Monday for a two-day state visit, which will be hosted by King Charles. During this visit, he will also engage with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is aiming to strengthen relations with affluent Gulf nations.
As reported by Qatar‘s news agency, the emir will be accompanied by an official delegation, including the country’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.
The formal state visit will commence on Tuesday and coincides with the Labour government’s efforts, in power since July, to find co-investors for new infrastructure projects, particularly in the realm of cleaner energy.
Starmer is also working to finalize ongoing discussions regarding a trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes nations such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
The UK’s Business and Trade Department projects that a free trade agreement with the GCC could enhance the UK economy by £1.6 billion ($2.03 billion) in the long term.
Qatar has made significant investments in the UK, with its sovereign wealth fund, the Qatar Investment Authority, holding shares in major companies like Barclays, Sainsbury’s, and Canary Wharf.
King Charles and the emir, who has visited the UK eight times from 2014 to 2023, last met at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in December of the previous year.
The meeting with Prime Minister Starmer is scheduled for Wednesday at 10 Downing Street. Starmer is also anticipated to visit the Gulf region later this month.
On Tuesday morning, the emir will be welcomed by Prince William and Princess Kate before receiving a formal reception from King Charles and Queen Camilla at the Horse Guards Parade. Following this, he will participate in a carriage procession with the royal family.
The itinerary also includes a visit to Westminster Abbey and a state banquet before the emir’s departure on Wednesday evening.
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