Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is set to arrive in Britain on Monday for a two-day state visit, hosted by King Charles. During his stay, the Emir will also meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is keen on strengthening ties with the wealthy Gulf states.
According to 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 state visit will officially commence on Tuesday, coinciding with Britain's Labour government's search for co-investors to support its infrastructure projects, particularly in cleaner energy systems.
Qatar, a wealthy Gulf nation, has several investments in Britain. The Qatar Investment Authority, the state's sovereign wealth fund, holds stakes in companies such as Barclays, Sainsbury's, and Canary Wharf. The Emir and King Charles have met multiple times, most recently at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in December last year.
The bilateral meeting with Starmer is scheduled for Wednesday at 10 Downing Street. Starmer is also expected to visit the Gulf region this month. Upon his arrival on Tuesday, the Emir will be greeted by Prince William and Princess Kate before being formally welcomed by King Charles and Queen Camilla at the Horse Guards Parade. A carriage procession with the royals will follow. The agenda also includes a visit to Westminster Abbey and a state banquet before the Emir's departure on Wednesday evening.
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