Washington / Information Office / April 09
HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and HE US Defense Secretary, James Matisse discussed strategic, defence, military and security cooperation between the two countries and means of developing and expanding them.
During the meeting, which was held at the US Department of Defense (Pentagon), on Monday morning, HH the Emir and HE the US Defense Secretary reviewed the two countries' joint cooperation in combating terrorism and its causes.
The meeting also tackled a number of current regional and international events, especially the situation in Yemen and Syria.
At the beginning of the meeting, HE the US Secretary of Defense expressed his thanks to HH the Emir and the accompanying delegation for this visit, voicing his pleasure at their presence in the Pentagon, especially after the US-Qatari strategic dialogue which reflects the strength of long-standing relations between Qatar and the United States of America, as well as the partnership at the level of the Department of Defense , describing the relations between the two countries as a value and historical friendship with the region. He said he looks forward to further bilateral discussions and opportunities for future cooperation.
HE the US Defense Secretary also expressed Qatar's commitment and support for security and stability in the region. He expressed his thanks and appreciation to HH the Emir for the important role of Qatar in the fight against terrorism through Al Udeid Air Base.
HE the Secretary of Defense also pointed out that what Qatar faces in the region faced by the United States of America.
HE James Matisse expressed his thanks for Qatari investments in the city center, stressing that Qatar-US relations are deep-rooted, aspiring to develop them.
For his part, HH the Emir expressed the strength of relations between the two countries, especially in the defense sector, pointing out the success of the Qatari-US strategic dialogue and its results which confirm the development of relations for the better.
HH the Emir also referred to the joint cooperation of the two countries in various fields, particularly in the field of combating terrorism, noting that the State of Qatar hosts more than 10000 US soldiers working with Qatari soldiers.
The meeting was attended by a number of Their Excellencies members of the official delegation accompanying HH the Emir.
HH the Emir was accorded an official reception ceremony upon his arrival at the Pentagon .