Safadi, Qatar FM talk ties, region in Doha meeting

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Ayman Safadi and Qatari Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held talks in Doha on Sunday that focused on further boosting relations between the two countries and reviewing several Arab and regional issues.

The two ministers also stressed keenness to continue to boost cooperation in various fields in implementation of the directives of His Majesty King Abdullah and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

Safadi and Sheikh Mohammed went over steps that aim to enhance investment, economic and commercial cooperation, agreeing to increase communication among stakeholders to identify future opportunities for cooperation.

The Palestinian issue was preeminent during discussions on the region. Safadi and Sheikh Mohammed stressed that there is no alternative to the two-state solution as a means to realise just and comprehensive peace, reiterating the importance of halting all illegitimate Israeli procedures that undermine this solution and further exacerbate regional tensions and conflicts.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed Qatar's support for the historical Hashemite Custodianship over Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem and its role in protecting these sanctuaries and their Islamic and Christian Arab identity.

In addition, the ministers covered efforts to resolve crises in Syria, Libya, Yemen and other issues.

Safadi also congratulated Sheikh Mohammed on the great success and excellence that Qatar has had in organising the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, describing it as a "great historic achievement for Qatar and all Arabs".

They also agreed to continue communications and coordination.