Al-Assad, emir of Qatar discuss, Middle East peace, bilateral relations
Syria-Qatar, Politics, 3/21/2000

Upon his arrival in Damascus on Monday, Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa al-Thani and Syrian President Hafez al-Assad held a meeting. It was attended by the two Syrian vice presidents, foreign minister, minister of state for foreign affairs and the ministers of the economy, health and presidential affairs and members of the Qatari delegation accompanying the emir.

Then a closed-door meeting was held between the two leaders.

In an arrival statement to reporters, Sheikh Hamad expressed his pleasure to be visiting Syria and wished President al-Assad and the Syrian people all the best progress.

He commended Syria's principled stances in confrontation of dangers threatening the Arab states and in defense of Arab rights and just causes.

He added, "We confirm Qatar's firm support to Syria in its efforts to restore its occupied lands and usurped rights in accordance with international legitimacy and the land-for-peace formula and in implementation of a just and comprehensive peace formula and in implementation of a just, comprehensive and lasting peace in the region."

Sheikh Hamad continued that his visit is within the framework of brotherly consultations and the exchange of views on different issues of common concern, first and foremost being bilateral relations and difficulties facing the Arabs who are demanded to unify their efforts and stances.

He said, "This will not be achieved unless an all-out Arab summit is held to discuss the best ways to overcome the state of fragmentation we suffer, and bridge the gaps between Arab countries. In such a case we can achieve Arab solidarity and consolidate joint constructive cooperation that enables us to adopt a unified stand to confront any challenges or dangers threatening our nation."

The visiting emir continued that his visit is a good chance to get acquainted with Syria's development and achievements under the leadership of President al-Assad.

He stated that this visit will also enhance cooperation and the already-strong relations between the two sides for the interests and the welfare of the people of Syria and Qatar.

Later in the day, the emir and President al-Assad resumed their talks in a meeting held at the Damascus al-Shaab palace.

After this meeting, al-Assad and Sheikh Hamad held a closed door meeting. Talks dealt with the current situation in the region and the recent developments as well as current contacts concerning the Middle East peace process. They also discussed the situation in the Arab arena and bilateral relations.

Sheikh Hamad is accompanied by his premier and minister of the interior, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Khalifa al-Thani, Foreign Minister Hamad Bin Jasem Bin Jaber al-Thani, State Minister Abdullah Bin Khalifa al-Atiyah, Minister of the Economy and Trade Youssef Hussein Kamal and Health Minister Hujeir Ahmad Hujeir.

Previous Stories:
  Emir of Qatar arrives today in Damascus   (3/20/2000)
  Ruler of Qatar prepares to visit Damascus   (3/10/2000)
  Report: Emir of Qatar to visit Syria   (2/28/2000)

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