By *Saoud Al-AHBABI 

To talk about the Franco-Qatari reciprocal interests acquired by the two countries through bilateral relations for almost half a century in the economic, military, investments, education and teaching, cultural and renewable energy fields, I must analyze the dimensions as well as the areas in which France intervenes in Qatar with the aim of building Qatari infrastructure and other areas of public and private services in this country.

FRANCE, SECOND INVESTMENT COUNTRY IN EUROPE FOR QATAR

French companies are finding a place under the Qatari sun

 

How is France participating in the construction of Qatar?

For its pharaonic works and in particular those of the 2022 Football World Cup, Qatar is increasingly calling on global construction giants. Several tricolor groups are already very active in the emirate.

We can easily see the French efforts made to participate in the construction of this country through the various projects mentioned in the conventions and agreements already signed between the two countries since the Independence of the State of Qatar. Also, we must address French participation in building infrastructure in Qatar through the various projects agreed by the two countries. First, we will discuss the role of the French professional presence in the construction of Qatari infrastructure. Secondly, French participation in the construction of infrastructure in Qatar will be discussed, then in the third and last paragraph, we study French military and security cooperation in Qatar through the data provided by the people, civilians and military, who accepted the interviews. as part of this doctoral research. Trade between the two countries, driven “by French exports of capital goods” and military equipment, “and Qatari exports of gas and hydrocarbon-derived products”, has grown on average by 16% per year since 2000. .

The president of Qadran, this economic circle created in 2015, Omer Acar, said in a press release that he expected “this dynamic to continue and intensify in the years to come, in particular thanks to the impetus given by the new partnerships initiated between our companies within the framework of the World Cup”.

The professional French presence in Qatar

 

 

 

 

According to Pascal Boniface, his article published in 2016, in a global economic context marked by generally low growth, the economic relationship between Qatar and France stands out for its surprising dynamism. French exports to Qatar have experienced remarkable growth, increasing by 31% in 2014 and 25% in 2015. France has thus become Qatar’s second trading partner, after the United States, while it only occupied ninth place in 2014. In recent years, bilateral relations have experienced renewed growth, highlighting the growing interest of businesses and investors, both French and Qatari, in bilateral trade and investments. These relationships are based on economic and financial interests that are well understood by these economic actors, although often unknown to the general public, particularly in France. For example, few people know about the “Future French Champions” program, hosted by Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations, and launched by the French government in 2014. This program has benefited from an investment of more than 300 million euros from Qatar’s part to support small innovative French businesses.

It is important to note that over the past two decades, Qatar has experienced a crucial and exceptional phase of economic development. Considerable investments have been made to modernize the country, thus attracting many foreign companies, while abroad, Qatari investments have multiplied.

This expansion has allowed Qatar to establish strong economic and political relations with most of the world’s major economies. France is no exception, where Qatari investments are present in various economic sectors such as infrastructure, hotels, sports, as well as luxury, among others. Strengthening ties between the two nations has also encouraged French companies to expand their operations and invest in Qatar. The year 2015 was particularly favorable for the development of economic relations between Qatar and France. Indeed, in addition to the sale of the Rafale combat aircraft, with a contract worth nearly 6.5 billion euros, companies such as Thalès (for the Doha metro), Bouygues (for the IDRISS project), and Saint-Gobain (for the mega-water reservoir) obtained lucrative contracts in Qatar. In addition, renowned companies such as Chanel and Fnac have opened boutiques in the country, thus illustrating the intensification of trade between the two countries. This economic dynamic is not the result of a simple stroke of luck, but stems from a political will affirmed since the mid-1990s to make Qatar a prosperous and diversified economy, aimed at guaranteeing its citizens a standard of living similar to that of the richest nations. This ambition was based on various strategies, first focused on the exploitation of natural resources, then on economic diversification from the mid-2000s. It was also reinforced by the establishment of partnerships and cooperation with the world’s major economies.

It is also necessary to analyze Franco-Qatari economic relations in order to identify the issues for the two countries and their respective economies and then compare the economic situations of the two countries, which are certainly very different. However, these differences prove to be complementarities for two nations having placed economic and social progress at the heart of their development strategy, with particular emphasis on innovation, education, culture and sport. Historically, French companies have always enjoyed a strong presence in Qatar. They have been established in the country for a long time, as demonstrated by the example of Total. Initially focused on the exploitation of gas and oil resources, as well as the construction of infrastructure and distribution networks, they are now tending to further diversify their activities. The amount of major civil contracts won by French companies, stable since 2009, has been increasing since 2012.
Qatar has implemented an ambitious infrastructure development plan in Doha in anticipation of the 2022 Football World Cup. In 2015, French companies positioned themselves well in relation to international competition, being traditionally very active in sectors concerned by these investments such as construction, transport and public facilities. The Qatari authorities have thus entrusted these French companies with major projects such as the Doha metro system and port security in Thalès, the IDRISS project in Bouygues, as well as the supply of equipment for the construction of mega-reservoirs. drinking water at Saint Gobain. In the field of services and engineering, French companies have also positioned themselves well. Orange has won its first contract in Qatar for the provision of ICT services in the new town of Musheireb. This is also the first contract won by the RATP-SNCF consortium for assistance with the operation of the “Éducation City” tramway. In addition, the company EGIS was selected for five markets in 2015. However, French companies established in Qatar are not limited to large groups, which have been present for a long time and which benefit from a favorable environment to expand their activities there. . More and more small and medium-sized businesses are now ready to set up in Qatar. The vice-president of Medef International, when he led a delegation representing 34 companies to Qatar in November 2014, stressed that France was in a favorable context in this country, specifying that Qatar was « very demanding of French SMEs », particularly because of “colossal projects” which offer not only opportunities for large contracts, but also opportunities in niche markets. Two types of French presence in Qatar can be distinguished:
Here are the different sectors in which French companies are active in Qatar:
– Luxury, with brands such as Hermès, Dior, Cartier, Lacroix, Louboutin, Lancel, and Vuitton, among others
– Mass distribution and clothing, with brands like Carrefour, Camaieu, Célio, Géant Casino, Lacoste, Monoprix, Morgan, and Naf Naf, which have stores and boutiques in Qatar. In 2015, many major brands also opened their doors, including Chanel and FNAC, which opened its first boutique in the Middle East. Galeries Lafayette also plans to open a store in 2016;
– Interior design and decoration, with companies such as Habitat;
– Leisure, with brands like Go Sport, Sephora, or Body Shop;
– Gastronomy, highlighting the prestige of French brands such as Alain Ducasse, Fauchon, Ladurée, Lenôtre, l’Atelier du Chocolat, Paul, or Pierre Hermé;
– In the hotel sector, the Accor group still has a modest presence in Qatar, with only a Mercure hotel and the management of an Adagio apart-hotel. However, it plans to strengthen its presence in the coming years with several planned openings, including a 4-star Pullman hotel, an MGallery boutique hotel, as well as a combined Ibis/Adagio project, totaling more than 1,300 rooms in the years to come. Additionally, Accor has submitted an offer to Katara Hospitality to open a Sofitel hotel in the high-end shopping mall “Place Vendôme” in Lusail New Town.

French companies have established themselves in Qatar, numbering 106 companies as of June 15, 2015, of which 95 are subsidiaries of French companies and 11 were created in Qatar by French nationals. Their number increases every year and today reaches nearly a hundred structures in various sectors such as ICT, engineering, construction, distribution, financial services, etc. These companies won contracts worth a total of 2.3 billion euros. According to data from the Bank of France, Qatar is the second beneficiary of French investments expressed in stock in the Gulf Cooperation Council region, with an amount of 2.377 billion euros in 2014, just after Saudi Arabia ( 3.7 billion euros). This represents an increase of 25.1% compared to 2013, when investments amounted to only 1.9 billion euros. The cumulative stock of direct investments by French companies in Qatar has increased fivefold since 2005, now representing 0.26% of total French direct investments worldwide.

The French presence in Qatar

To date, according to the head of the economic department of the French embassy in Doha, 122 subsidiaries and 79 French subsidiaries are listed in Qatar, a large part of which
CAC 40 companies and major French groups. The latter were able to rely on
their experience in sectors requiring a high level of expertise such as construction,
the exploitation of hydrocarbons and water treatment to win major contracts
who contributed to the development of Qatar. If Qatari economic activity slows down these
recent years, opportunities remain significant for French companies and the
flow of new establishments has not weakened.
Among the main locations, we can note the presence of the following companies.

Hydrocarbons

Historically well established in this sector, French companies have won in
the field of hydrocarbon production several important contracts in recent
years, strengthening their position. Total has been present in Qatar since 1936 in the fields of
oil exploration and production and gas production, liquefaction and transportation
natural, as well as refining and petrochemicals. TechnipFMC was one of the great architects of
development of the LNG sector, since its establishment in 1986, by participating in the
Construction of several liquefaction trains and petrochemical installations. Gasal (joint venture between Air Liquide/Qatar Petroleum/QIMC) supplies the large gas industries and
petrochemicals into industrial gases: in 2013, the group installed turnkey the largest
helium production unit in the world, making Qatar the world’s leading exporter. SPIE Oil
& Gas Services, offers its operating services dedicated to onshore oil and targets
operation and maintenance contracts in the oil and gas sector. Finally, Bourbon provides
maritime services dedicated to offshore oil in Qatar (Total, Shell, etc.).
Aeronautics, defense, security and avionics1
Dassault Aviation, DCI, MBDA and Airbus (civil and defense) are well established in the Emirate
to monitor their important contracts and prospects in the emirate. Thales offers
Qatar its wide range of services (security equipment, signage, ticketing, etc.). THE
French group, like Total, has opened an R&D center in Qatar Science and
Technology Park (QSTP). Furthermore, the company AAA, specialized in services
aeronautics and aerospace, established itself in Qatar in 2019.

Infrastructure, construction, engineering, urbanization

Vinci has been established in Qatar since 2007 through a joint venture QDVC, a partnership with
Qatari Diar (49%-51%), subsidiary of the Qatari sovereign fund: QDVC is notably involved in
several major transport projects (Doha metro, Lusail tramway). Its subsidiary Cegelec
Qatar, for its part, is involved in the ventilation and electrical installation of the tunnels.
tram. Saint-Gobain, for its part, participated in the extension and modernization of the network
road. Egis is active in a significant flow of contracts (public works, rail, air, etc.).
Finally, the JCDecaux group, via its subsidiary Elan Decaux, is focusing on the establishment of a
urban furniture program with the Ministry of Municipalities and the Environment.
Transportation

On the Lusail tramway, Alstom is responsible for a lot including the rolling stock, the system
electrification, rails, signage as well as the telecommunications and
control. Through their RKH joint venture, Keolis and RATP ensure the operation and
maintenance of the Doha metro and the Lusail tramway for a period of 20 years. The subsidiary
of the SNCF, Systra, is also involved in these projects (as project management
consultant and lead designer). Arep finalized its work on six of the underground stations
of the green line of the Doha metro in June 2018. Concerning the airport, ADPI won the
design and design of the Emir’s pavilion and the air traffic controller training center
of Civil Aviation, as well as the supply of airspace organization systems.

Water, electricity, environment

Engie is Qatar’s leading independent producer of electricity and water. The group has
developed and operates two desalination plants Suez and Veolia operate two of the most
major wastewater treatment plants in the country, Doha West and Doha South. Saint-Gobain PAM has
developed a very important activity in Qatar and supplies the pipes for the Kahramaa mega-reservoir project. Regarding electrical equipment, Schneider Electric is one
of the main suppliers of Qatar Rail and Kahramaa (public transport and transport operator
electricity distribution). Legrand is also present. Nexans has also
won several major contracts since 2015 with Kahramaa, and opened in Qatar
a local production plant for medium and high-voltage cables. Finally, EDF obtained a
contract to extend the electricity network and strengthened its presence with the creation of a subsidiary.
Information technology
The Orange group, through its Orange Business Services (OBS) entity, offers its services
intelligent for the management of the smart-city of Msheireb. The group also participated in the
design of on-board intelligent systems for the Doha metro. Present in Qatar since
2012, Atos markets its IT services and works closely with Ooredoo,
the local telecom operator, on the themes of cybersecurity and the cloud.
Financial services/insurance
BNP Paribas is the only French bank established in Qatar but other banks (Société
General, Crédit Agricole, etc.) are active in the country on various subjects (export credits,
project financing, bonds, etc.). In the insurance sector, we can note the presence
from AXA.

Health

Sanofi and Servier have a commercial presence. This sector also arouses the interest of mid-sized companies/SMEs.

Hospitality and catering

The Accor group operates the Mercure Grand Hotel Doha City Center opened in 1982 and the hotel
Alwadi Hotel Doha MGallery opened in March 2019. Several hotels in the French group are in
development over the 2019-2021 period (Ibis, Pullman, Sofitel, Novotel brands). In the
collective catering, Sodexo and Newrest are strongly established in Qatar.
Services/Events
French SMEs/ETIs are present in particular in the services,
recruitment (MPH) of security (Gis-Mic, Samsic) and events (Audience,
Comexposium, GL Events).

          Distribution

Carrefour is the leader in mass distribution in Qatar (more than 1,700 employees). Very
Many franchises represent major French brands. Monoprix, Jennifer,
Camaïeu, Etam, Sephora in distribution/fashion; Paul, Lenôtre, Pierre Hermé, Ladurée,
Angelina, Fauchon are present in the catering; Louis Vuitton, Chanel on luxury; Or
again FNAC and JouéClub. Liberal professions, architectural offices or decorators
French have also been increasing in number in recent years.
Alongside the Economic Service teams, the Business France branch in Doha was
inaugurated in 2011 and is attached to the Dubai Economic Mission.
La Maison de la France (MDLF) brings together within a single legal entity all
components of the French community present in Qatar (business community, CCEF,
associations involved in welcoming nationals, Alumni network of Qataris having
benefited from the French education system…), in order to improve their visibility, within the
French-speaking community and create maximum synergies.
The French Chamber of Commerce in Qatar (attached to the Chamber of Commerce and
of French industry internationally since June 2018) drives the business community
French.
The French Team For Sport (FT4S) cluster in the field of sport – which is integrated into the
Chamber of Commerce – aims to structure and support the French offer ahead of the Cup
of the world 2022.
The CCEF (French Foreign Trade Advisors) section brings together around twenty
Members, representative of the business community.

The presence of French companies in Qatar therefore leads to an increase in the French community in Doha. It is now estimated at nearly 5,000 people, largely comprising executives and business leaders. This community constitutes the third largest Western community in the country, after the United Kingdom and the United States, but clearly ahead of Germany.

From the strategic point of view of the historical dimension of Franco-Qatari relations and to show the solid and stable Qatari position towards France as a trusted partner, the site Al-Arabiya.net, in its article of March 21, 2024 entitled “Qatar Energy signs agreement to supply France with natural gas for 27 years, confirmed the signing of the largest energy contract between the State of Qatar and France according to which Doha commits for 27 years from the year 2026 , to supply liquefied gas to Paris.

Following the launch of the Russian offensive in Ukraine in 2022 and Franco-Qatari negotiations with the aim of finding an alternative that replaces Russian gas, Qatar signed, in March 2024, two agreements to supply liquefied natural gas to France for a period of 27 years from 2026, a step which is part of the European country’s efforts to diversify its supplies, according to the Qatari government energy group in a press release. Qatari Minister of State for Energy, Saad Al-Kaabi, said: “The signing of these two new agreements with our partner Total Energy confirms our continued commitment to the European markets in general and the French market in particular, thus contributing to energy security in France. « . The minister added that « Our commitment to ensuring a continuous and reliable energy supply to Europe and the rest of the world is based on our significant investments across the entire gas industry chain. ».
It should be noted that Total Energy is a partner in the North Field LNG expansion projects, with a 6.25% stake in the North East Field project and a 9.375% stake in the South North Field project.
Qatar is one of the largest producers of liquefied natural gas in the world, alongside the United States, Australia and Russia. Qatar Energy estimates that the North field contains around 10% of the world’s natural gas reserves. As part of the expansion of the North Field, which extends into Iranian territory, Qatar is expected to increase its liquefied natural gas production by 60% or more to reach 126 million tonnes per year by 2027.
After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, European countries rushed to look for alternatives to natural gas supplies after abandoning Russian gas. The British Shell, the Italian Eni and ExxonMobil have signed contracts to participate in the expansion of Qatari fields.
Total Energy Company Chairman Patrick Pouyanne told reporters at the groundbreaking ceremony that the North field expansion was a “huge project” and was accompanied by an increase in gas demand liquefied natural gas from Europe in light of sanctions imposed on Russia due to its war against Ukraine. He continued saying that “We need more supplies. It’s clear. The market is still fragile,” adding, “This project is large-scale and will add space to the market.” Asian countries, led by China, Japan and South Korea, constitute the main market for Qatari gas. Qatar’s agreement with Total is equivalent in duration to that concluded with China National Petroleum Corporation and China’s Sinopec, making it the third such agreement in the liquefied gas industry.

Regarding the presence of French investments in Qatar, the site Al-Sharq.com posted its article online entitled “1.16 billion dollars of French investments in Qatar” on February 23, 2023, which highlighted the emphasis on French participation in the construction of Qatari infrastructure through the significant figures of French investments in this country. The Qatar Investment Promotion Agency Invest Qatar and Business France, the national agency for supporting and developing the French economy around the world, have published a joint report on “Bilateral trade relations and foreign direct investments between Qatar and France. The report highlights many aspects of cooperation, agreements and partnerships that have helped consolidate economic and political relations between Qatar and France over the past five decades of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In the military field, the State of Qatar, like all Gulf countries, is strengthening its military capabilities through the various conventions already signed with France. The site midile-east-online.com shed light on the Qatari desire to perfect and improve Qatari military powers through multiple strategic consultation meetings with French military officials. This site published the article entitled “Qatar strengthens its military relations with France in a context of escalating tensions in the Gulf. Gulf countries, including Qatar, are seeking to develop their military preparation by relying on French expertise. » on February 18, 2023. Doha and Paris seek to strengthen their cooperation in many areas, including the military domain, amid the many tensions in the region and the efforts made by many Gulf countries to develop their military preparedness , conclude arms contracts and carry out joint or cooperative maneuvers with Western armies.
The Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces, Salem bin Hamad bin Aqeel Al Nabit, met his French counterpart, Thierry Burkhard, during the former’s indefinite visit to Paris to discuss strengthening military ties. The Qatari Defense Ministry said in a statement: “During the meeting, which was attended by a number of senior officers of the Qatari Armed Forces, the military cooperation relations between the two sides were reviewed.”
The meeting included, according to the statement, “the signing of the minutes of the meeting of the Qatari-French Joint High Committee during its 24th session.” The meeting’s agenda also included « agreement on numerous joint activities and exercises, in addition to the exchange of experiences that will contribute to strengthening cooperation between the two friendly countries, » according to the statement. The meeting of the Qatari-French Joint High Committee is held every year, alternating between the two countries.
In recent years, Doha has been able to conclude numerous arms contracts with the French side, which notably included the purchase of Rafale fighter jets, as well as armored vehicles and advanced missile defense systems. In 2017, Doha purchased 12 Rafale warplanes and around 500 military vehicles as part of a deal to address pressures in the region after a number of Arab and Gulf countries cut ties with the Qatari authorities. The Gulf region is experiencing unprecedented tensions due to Iranian escalation and threats made from time to time by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards in the region, which has prompted a number of Gulf countries to carry out maneuvers military and to conclude arms contracts worth billions of dollars.
France is considered one of the leading countries in the field of manufacturing various weapons, including aircraft and warships. Franco-Qatari relations have experienced significant development over the recent period, particularly with the energy and gas needs of Paris following Moscow’s decision to cut off gas to several European countries due to the repercussions of the war in Ukraine and in in light of Paris’ efforts to diversify energy sources. Doha also has significant investments in France, particularly in tourism, sports and other sectors, while French right-wing political forces are very concerned by the extent of Qatari influence in France.
7.2 French participation in the construction of infrastructure in Qatar.
In 2017, relations between France and Qatar were significantly strengthened, especially in the area of French participation in the construction of infrastructure in Qatar during the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Doha. During this visit, according to Al-Jazeera.net, Qatar awarded the French companies RATP and SNCF the contract for the construction and operation of the metro in the capital Doha, with an estimated value of three billion dollars, as part of of a series of signed contracts. The chairman of the board of directors of the French National Railway Company confirmed that the value of the operation and maintenance contract for the Doha metro and the Lusail tramway amounts to three billion euros. Qatar also announced it would buy 50 Airbus A321neos, with an option to buy 30 more, Reuters reported. The value of the contract for 50 Airbus planes amounts to 5.5 billion euros, according to what was reported by Agence France-Presse. The Emir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Macron signed several agreements in the areas of defense and education cooperation, as well as a letter of intent to fight against terrorism, which includes a road map to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. The French news agency reported that Qatar had signed contracts to purchase at least 12 Rafale fighter jets from the French group Dassault.
According to the publication of the Al-Sharq website on June 30, 2017, the number of French companies operating in the Qatari market has reached around 200 companies, half of which are registered with 100% capital held by French institutions. France hopes to double this number, or around 400 companies, in addition to the presence of 100 other companies with Qatari-French joint capital. The Qatari market has attracted major French institutions like Vinci and Lagerdiard, in addition to investments in the oil and gas sector through Total, with investments in Qatari companies increasing this year, including: Qatar Chemicals, Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited, Qatofin Company, Gazelle Company and Spherpetroleum Company, as well as Q Company. DVC, there are companies specializing in exhibitions and conferences, as Doha is considered a major destination for conferences and exhibitions. Particularly in recent years, French establishments have established themselves in several of the following sectors: aeronautical industries, water treatment, distribution, construction and luxury. Data from the Banque de France indicates that the stock of French direct investments in Qatar amounted to 4.6 billion euros in 2016, and the number of branches of French establishments in Qatar continues to increase, doubling in 2017.
In the field of Franco-Qatari energy cooperation and following the Russian war in Ukraine and according to the site France24.com, the French company Total Energy obtained a new participation in Qatar’s projects aimed at increasing its gas production , being chosen as the main partner for the expansion of an area of an immense deposit. This new agreement between the Gulf State and the French company comes in the middle of the European energy crisis, against the backdrop of the Russian war against Ukraine. Total Energy obtained a 6.25 percent share, worth around two billion dollars, of the North Field development project, in the eastern part, according to an agreement signed on June 12, 2022 and valid until 2054.
In the midst of a European energy crisis and against the backdrop of a Russian attack on Ukraine, Qatar has chosen the French company “Total Energy” as its main partner for the expansion of the immense gas field in the North. Qatari Energy Minister Saad Sharida Al-Kaabi told a news conference in Doha that the French company, which joined another expansion project in Qatar in June, would also join efforts to to expand the South North Field project. The Qatar News Agency said: “With a percentage of 9.375 percent, Qatar Energy announces the selection of Total Energy as a partner for the development of the South-North field, and new partners will be announced later. « .
In the field of renewable energies and specifically in solar energy, Qatar, one of the largest exporting countries of liquefied natural gas in the world, inaugurated its first solar power plant in partnership with the French groups “Total Energy” and the Japanese groups “Marubeni” , as part of a project costing one billion and 700 million Qatari riyals (approximately $466 million). Minister of State for Energy Affairs and CEO of state-owned Qatar Energy Oil Company Saad bin Sherida Al-Kaabi said the station, located in Al-Kharsaa, west of Doha, is « the one of the largest solar energy plants” in the region. « . The station covers an area of 10 square kilometers and includes more than 1,800,000 solar panels that use technology to track the movement of the sun from east to west. Robots will carry out cleaning work at night using treated water. The generating capacity of the plant is 800 megawatts, providing approximately 10% of the country’s electricity consumption during peak periods. The station, in service since June, is the property of a joint venture launched in 2016 between companies affiliated with Qatar Energy Renewable Solutions Company (60%), in addition to the Japanese Marubeni (20.4%) and the French Total Energy (19 .6%).

Total Energy Group has signed two huge contracts with Qatar to expand the North offshore field, the world’s largest natural gas field. “The fact that Total Energy recently became Qatar’s first international partner is a strong indicator,” Patrick Pouyanné, CEO of the French oil and gas giant, told AFP. He considers it “the result of a lot of work over many years, but I think it comes at a time when the question of security of supplies for Europe is before us all”.
In response to a question from Agence France-Presse about Qatar’s relationship with Total Energy, Al-Kaabi jokingly said: « It seems that Total is the only company that Qatar is working with, and that explains how relations are good” with her. “We think like companies: be a technological leader and try to move towards remote areas of exploration and also towards renewable energies”.
In the sense of Franco-Qatari cooperation, the minister added: “I believe that our partnership will be further strengthened, but that does not mean that we do not have other very important partners, and you will soon see us sign (contracts) with others”, while Qatar is expected to reveal the names of other foreign companies involved in the North field.
The organizers of the 2022 World Cup have promised that the World Cup in Qatar will be carbon neutral, thanks to the use of solar energy in the stadiums. However, Al-Kaabi said in a press conference on Tuesday that he had no information on the matter.
Qatar, which aims to produce more than 5 gigawatts of solar energy by 2035, has announced a project to install two solar power plants which would double its production capacity within two years. The minister explained that the Al-Kharsaa solar power plant will be “expanded” by 2035. However, the steps of the rich emirate are considered late compared to Gulf countries. Saudi Arabia has announced plans to increase its solar power generation capacity to more than 5 gigawatts in 2030, while the United Arab Emirates has been using solar power plants for almost a decade.
In its article published on February 15, 2023, the site aa.com.tr, placed emphasis on the Qatari desire to reduce the use of fossil fuels to switch to clean energies and also on strengthened cooperation between France and the State of Qatar in the field of good French participation in the construction of Qatari infrastructure as part of the realization of the Qatari National Vision 2030. According to this publication, Qatar inaugurated the third largest solar power plant in the world a month before the start of the 2022 World Cup.
Qatar is set to double its solar power production in 2024 after the completion of two new plants and has started construction on the world’s largest blue ammonia plant, investing $1.2 billion.
Although Qatar is the world’s second largest exporter of liquefied gas, it entered the competitive market for renewable energy production in 2022, coinciding with the hosting of the FIFA World Cup, described as the latest respectful version of the environment of the history of the World Cup. Although Qatar was slightly late in entering the renewable energy market compared to its neighbors the Emirates and Saudi Arabia, it kicked off its launch by opening one of the world’s largest renewable energy plants. solar energy of the Gulf region, and launched the world’s largest project the entire world to produce blue ammonia, not to mention its intention to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in Egypt, and Britain to produce green hydrogen and green ammonia.
Qatar managed to open the country’s first solar power plant on October 18, about a month before the opening of the 2022 World Cup. The Al Kharsaa solar power plant is ranked as the third largest photovoltaic project in the world. Its production capacity is 800 megawatts, equivalent to 10 percent of the country’s maximum electrical energy consumption, or the equivalent of the consumption of 55,000 homes, according to official data. This station can reduce approximately 26 million tonnes of harmful carbon emissions over the life of the project, at a rate of one million tonnes per year.
The giant station – located 80 km west of the capital, Doha – comprises 1.8 million solar panels spread over an area of 10 square kilometers, the equivalent of the area of 1,400 football fields. The station uses advanced technologies to generate solar energy, as it adopts technology to track the movement of the sun from east to west and uses robots to clean the panels at night using treated water to improve its efficiency. This project cost around $476 million, or less than half a billion dollars, in partnership between Qatar Energy Company for Renewable Solutions (60%), the Japanese company Marubeni (20.4%) and the French complex Total Energy (19.6%).
Qatar does not intend to stop there since it announced at the end of August 2022 its ambition to produce more than 5,000 megawatts of solar energy in 2035, by expanding the “Al-Kharsaa” power plant and installing two huge solar power plants.
On October 16, before the opening of the Al Kharsaa station, Qatar Energy Company for Renewable Solutions signed an agreement with the South Korean company Samsung C&T to implement a project of two solar power plants for an investment cost more than $630 million.
The total output of the two plants is 875 megawatts, with the first in the industrial city of Mesaieed producing 417 megawatts and the second in the industrial city of Ras Laffan with a capacity of 458 megawatts. Both stations are expected to come online by 2024, doubling the country’s solar power generation from the current 800 megawatts to 1,675 megawatts.
In a related context, Qatar is preparing to enter the production phase of some components of solar panels, since the Qatar Solar Energy Technologies Company will produce « polysilicon », which is used in the production of chips from which solar cells are produced. With the global demand for solar panel production increasing, Qatar aims to become one of the polysilicon exporting countries.
While Qatar lags behind some Gulf countries in solar energy production, it is poised to take the lead in blue ammonia production thanks to its enormous gas production, as it ranks first. second in the world for the production of liquefied gas. Blue ammonia results from a chemical reaction of nitrogen (available in abundance in the air) with hydrogen (available in water) by electrolysis using gas, resulting in blue ammonia. Blue ammonia is used as a clean fuel that can be used to run power plants, not to mention its well-known role as a fertilizer. Blue ammonia is proposed as an alternative to hydrogen because it is easier to store and transport, and it is seen as a transition step toward using cleaner green ammonia that uses renewable energy instead some gas.
In this regard, Qatar announced on August 31, 2022 its intention to build the world’s largest blue ammonia production plant with an investment of $1.2 billion, with the plant expected to start operating in the first quarter of 2026 The blue ammonia plant (Ammonia-7) will capture approximately 1.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year and isolate it from the ammonia manufacturing process.
Qatar does not show much interest in producing blue and green hydrogen on its territory, especially since blue ammonia has better properties than it, especially in the storage and export process. However, on October 19, 2021, Qatar Energy and Royal Dutch Shell signed an agreement to jointly invest in blue and green hydrogen projects in Britain.
Arab media also reported last November on a study carried out by Qatar on a project to produce green hydrogen and green ammonia in the Suez Canal economic zone. The country does not have enough water to enter into the production of blue water and nourish its soil, especially since ammoniacal water has the best properties available, not in the process of storage and export.
Then, on October 19, 2021, Qatar Energy and Royal Dutch Shell signed an agreement to invest in a joint venture in blue hydrocarbon projects and establish a presence in Britain.
In conclusion, the year 2022 was a real launch for clean energy projects in Qatar (solar energy and blue ammonia), especially since the country wanted the 2022 World Cup, of which it oversaw the organization is respectful of the environment.
Qatar was not known, before 2022, for its interest in clean energy production given the availability of gas in abundant quantities, but it is seeking to quickly remedy the situation and catch up with its neighbors in the Gulf and its Arab brothers, even to excel in the field of blue ammonia production, which constitutes a still emerging but promising market.

The French military presence in the Gulf

Cooperation between France and the Gulf countries

France has signed conventions for several years with Arab Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The repeated visits of senior French officials to the Gulf countries, such as the President of the Republic and the Minister of Defense, are proof of the serious French desire to monitor the proper application of these defense conventions. The control must cover a set of procedures and arrangements such as the exchange of information, reception of officers from the Gulf countries in French military establishments, having a common military maneuver between France and these Gulf countries, and controlling the short visits of the French Navy to the Gulf region.
French support for Arab Gulf countries can take a second form, which is the sale of arms and military equipment. Throughout the past decades, France has provided advanced equipment such as intelligence planes, helicopters, missiles, tanks, and long-distance communications equipment. These sales are never subject to political conditions on the part of France but they are within the framework of military cooperation between France and these countries. This is the case of military cooperation between France and the Saudi Kingdom. This military and security cooperation also aims to combat international terrorism according to the common visions of France and that of Saudi Arabia.

According to Commander Anne de Luca of the French Air Force, France can play an important role in the strategic Arab Gulf region thanks to a very active rational French diplomacy in the Arab world. This is confirmed in very varied sectors such as higher education and culture such as the University of Paris – Sorbonne in Abu Dhabi as well as the Louvre with the aim of participating in the diffusion of French Soft Power in the geostrategic zone of Arabian Gulf. France also has the possibility of having strong cooperation with the Arab Gulf countries in the field of defense as well as security. The Franco-UAE defense relationship is based on operational, arms and intelligence cooperation, as well as one of the most developed security and defense cooperations in the Gulf region. The United Arab Emirates have purchased more than half of their military equipment from France while Qatar is equipped with 80% French equipment. Franco-Emirati cooperation is solid with the signing of very important bilateral agreements which constitute a strong political commitment.

The defense agreements signed between France and the Arab Gulf countries constitute France’s commitment to these countries. Thus, France demonstrates its intention to occupy the position of global power in this geoeconomic region of the world. This ambition is based on France’s capacity for influence in this Arab zone. In this regard, the French strategic base in Abu Dhabi is a major lever of influence. Inaugurated on May 16, 2009, it has three important components: naval, land and air. For fifty years, France had not opened a new military base abroad, which makes this establishment “a small geopolitical revolution” according to Admiral Guillaud. In the event of an Arab, American or Israeli conflict with Iran, the French base located 200 km from the Iranian coast will give France the first position in this regional conflict. The Iranian threat to block the Strait of Hormuz in the event of an Israeli attack places France at the heart of this very sensitive region. Furthermore, the nuclearization of the Arab Gulf region is becoming a possible prospect with Iran. Moreover, the long-standing dispute between Iran and the United Arab Emirates linked to the Iranian occupation of the three Abu Moussa Islands, the Big Tomb and the Little Tomb. The Abu Dhabi base helps contain tensions by dissuading any aggression that could put the region into crisis, the consequences of which would be more serious as they quickly spread to all neighboring countries.

The French military presence in Qatar

 

Visit of Brigadier General Eric Peltier to Qatar to strengthen bilateral military relationship

According to the French Armed Forces General Staff, Brigadier General (GBR) Eric Peltier visited Doha in mid-February 2022 as part of the development of military cooperation between France and Qatar.

During this visit, GBR Peltier had the opportunity to interact with the highest Qatari military authorities, including the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Salem Hamad Al Nabit, Advisor to the Minister and Head of the Committee for securing the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Major General Mohammad Abdullatif Al Mannai and the head of the International Cooperation Authority, Brigadier General, Abdulaziz Saleh Al Sulaiti.

General Peltier then presented the strategic vision of the French Chief of Staff to the National Defense College, the Qatari equivalent of the French College of Advanced Military Studies. These meetings and exchanges allowed France and Qatar to reaffirm their commitment to military cooperation and to study possible avenues for development.

General Mohammed Al-Shahwani/Qatar Military Attache in Paris from 2018 to 2024, sees that the State of Qatar began its international relations with the French Republic immediately after its independence in 1971 through the exchange of diplomatic representations between them, since the time of President Georges Pompidou in the 70s. These relations began to grow and develop steadily and become stronger and more durable with the growing consensus in political visions between the Qatari and French leaders on the global situation , in general, and the situation in the Middle East in particular. As proof, French President François Hollande told journalists in 2013: “All the presidents who have succeeded France have been interested in these relations, each in their own way.” The general made the following important remarks related to Franco-Qatari cooperation:

1.The most important principles that have made it possible to achieve this level of distinguished relations between the two countries are mutual respect, common interests and the conviction of both countries in the use of dialogue, diplomacy and soft power, which led to the creation of a common and unified strategic vision between the two countries. As I said above, the common work and close cooperation between the two countries and the shared visions on numerous international issues have made it possible to consolidate this trust between the two countries, and we can deduce once again plus President Hollande’s statement: « France’s relationship with Qatar is old and characterized by trust. »
2. Franco-Qatari interests are good, even excellent, and both parties wish to develop them, particularly in the areas of economic cooperation, education and the military, Qatar having become an important strategic economic partner for the France and, according to a Gulf News report, French investments in Qatar reached US$1.16 billion in 2021.

3. With more than 120 French companies and 80 French franchise agencies registered in Qatar, the value of Qatari investments in France amounts to approximately $30 billion, including $10 billion of private investments, and the value of trade amounts to 6.3 billion riyals, and the number Among French companies operating in Qatar, there are 418 companies, including 120 companies with 100% French participation, 290 in partnership with the Qatari side, 8 companies approved by the Financial center of Qatar and three representative offices of the French Republic. According to the Qatari newspaper Al-Raya of ?? March 2024, France is among the strategic partners of the State of Qatar. The article specifies that the total number of French companies working in Qatar has reached 418, including 120 companies of 100% French ownership, 290 of Franco-Qatari ownership and 8 companies authorized by the Qatar Financial Center.

4.There is also cooperation in the military field. For example, Qatar purchased 36 Rafale jets worth $8 billion and 28 new French helicopters. Trust between the two countries has reached sufficient levels for Qatar to obtain the capabilities to manage its defense programs with help from France. Qatar is expected to obtain digital programs such as the « VPCI » program, an infantry fighting vehicle program provided by the French company Nexter, and regularly organize joint military training and maneuvers between the two sides, as well as as bilateral exchanges of defense cooperation agreements to support efforts to combat terrorism and smuggling operations and maintain security and stability in the region.

5. After Qatar’s independence in 1971, relations developed in political areas, and since 1996, military cooperation has continued to develop between the two countries and coordination between Qatari security forces and their French counterparts have strengthened. The two countries took turns organizing the international exhibition of internal security systems “Milipol” between Doha and Paris, inaugurated until 2015 by the senior leaders of the two countries.

6. Relations continued to develop in all areas to achieve a common strategic vision through the Strategic Dialogue Protocol, where dialogue takes place continuously at all levels in the capitals of both countries.

7. Among the important agreements between the two countries, I can cite, without limitation:
– Defense cooperation agreement between Qatar and France in 1994.

– It is also worth mentioning here that the QDVC consortium won a tender for a railway project worth over 7 billion riyals, while Aegis won two contracts for road and infrastructure works worth 780 million riyals.

8. The State of Qatar has become a strategic ally of France in the Middle East region, where regular consultations on major regional and international issues prevail. Likewise, Qatar’s participation in the Paris Peace Forum demonstrates the importance of Qatar and its efforts towards peace and mediation to resolve conflicts between parties and conflicting parties across the world.

9. The State of Qatar and France have participated in the resolution of many problems and crises in Libya, Lebanon, Sudan, Mauritania, Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea and Comoros, and cooperation between the two country helped support the democratic process in the Arab Spring countries. Qatar also stressed the need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Ukraine and respect for international law and international humanitarian law during this crisis. In addition to matching views on international files and other regional issues.

10. Qatari-French relations were not affected by the Qatar-Gulf-Egyptian crisis in 2017. On the contrary, economic, scientific and military cooperation continued, as evidenced by the visit of His Highness Prince Tamim bin Hamad in Paris in September 2017, and he also visited in July 2018, and visited a military base in the « Mont Dumarson » region, southwest of France, as part of Doha’s efforts to purchase of 36 Rafale planes, military helicopters and around 500 armored vehicles, and met President Macron at the Élysée.

11. I would like to welcome the results of the joint working commissions of the Qatari-French strategic dialogue in various areas, such as: defense, security, economy, investment, energy, education, culture, scientific research, climate change, the environment, and sport, as a testimony to the close strategic partnership between the two countries, he also explained that economic relations between Qatar and France are strong and distinguished in terms of commercial and financial, and that France is considered one of the preferred destinations for Qatari investors abroad.

12. As I mentioned previously, the State of Qatar pays particular attention to the education sector, but I hope that French scientific institutions will contribute to the scientific renaissance of Qatar, particularly in the field of technical education and I believe there is a need in Qatar for a technically skilled workforce.

From a French military point of view, General Thierry Burkhard well summarized his response to the interview question linked to the strong points which characterize the relationship between France and Qatar saying « The use of the same equipment or weaponry (like the Rafale , for example) allows for better interoperability, joint exercises and training, as well as the sharing of experience in order to continually improve. This is an undeniable strong point. Regular exchanges of officers in training, both in schools in Qatar and in France, allow for language and culture learning, in order to better know and understand each other. This helps strengthen the military relationship.” Regarding the role of France and that of Qatar in stabilizing peace on a regional and global scale, the general said that “Franco-Qatari cooperation is already active in the region. , particularly in the context of the crisis in Gaza. Indeed, Qatar obtained a truce between Israel and Hamas, allowing the release of Franco-Israeli hostages. Furthermore, Doha facilitated the disengagement of the French ship Dixmude, by transferring and welcoming wounded Palestinians treated on board to Qatar.” Mr. Burkhard underlines the following essential points concerning the military and security aspects of Franco-Qatari bilateral relations:

1. All countries maintain military cooperation with several partners, the latter being complementary. Thus, France is supporting Qatar in order to train the Armed Forces in areas where it has recognized expertise. Beyond the technical aspect of bilateral military cooperation, which allows training and training on common equipment, the human relationship remains at the heart of our partnership. This aspect is essential if our armies were to engage together.

2. Qatar and France have a common history in many areas, particularly in military cooperation.

3. This results in the delivery of French weapons, the training of officers both in France and in Qatar, as well as participation in joint exercises.
4. Trust placed in one another translates into a protective legal framework for our armed forces.
5. Our common interests in the region (fight against terrorism, defense of freedom of navigation, etc.) help to encourage bilateral military cooperation in order to defend everyone’s interests.
6. By cooperating, the two armies strengthen their interoperability and mutually enrich each other. Thus, Paris and Doha cooperated to secure the Football World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
7. The privileged relationship maintained by France and Qatar is above all linked to the high quality of human relations, both in Paris and in Doha. Exchanges are regular, based on trust, with the firm desire to move forward together in a balanced relationship. For example, the strong personal ties I have with General Salem Al Nabet are testimony to this.
The Ambassador of France in Doha highlights the important features of the historical development of relations between France and Qatar as follows:
– Bilateral relations have relied heavily on personal relationships of trust and friendship between Presidents Chirac, Sarkozy and Hollande and Emir Sheikh Hamad then Emir Cheikh Tamim. This relationship of trust continues between President Macron and Emir Sheikh Tamim.
– These relationships at the highest level have naturally led to the establishment of relationships of trust at lower levels, between ministers or between officials within administrations.
– These relations have also benefited from France’s commitment alongside Qatar (Gulf War in 1990/91, Fasht al Dibal crisis) and French industries for the development of the country (Total in particular).
– Reminder of French political support for Qatar during the conflict with Bahrain in 1986 over control of the islet of Fasht Dibal;
– Participation of the French Air Force in the air defense of Qatar during the Gulf War (1990-1991);
– Signature of the defense cooperation agreement (1994) to perpetuate, after our commitment during the Gulf War, France’s support for Qatar in the event of external aggression;
– Reminder of French political support for Emir Sheikh Hamad in 1995 during his accession to power
– Participation of Qatari forces in the military intervention in Libya in 2011, alongside French forces
– The establishment of diplomatic relations between France and Qatar does not seem to have any other cause than the natural process of establishing relations between two independent States, when they consider it useful for mutual interests and regional stability .
– We can recall:
o Defense cooperation agreement signed in 1994 (and completed in 1998),
o Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed in 2019,
o Agreement on the exchange of classified defense documents, signed in 2019.

– Like Qatar during the Arab Spring, France supported the desire for emancipation of people in the search for better governance of their country (Tunisia, Libya in particular).
– Subsequently, France resolutely committed itself to the fight against terrorism which took advantage of the instability of certain countries to settle there and make bases to carry out attacks on other countries in the region or in Europe.
– The bilateral relationship is strengthened by the diplomatic position of Qatar, which joined that of France in condemning Russian aggression in Ukraine, and by Qatari support for Europe in the gas sector.
– The defense relationship between Qatar and France is sufficiently solid not to be endangered by other partnerships that Qatar deems useful for its defense. Furthermore, the French armies do not claim an exclusive relationship with the armed forces of Qatar.
– The French authorities have carried out an assessment of the situation. This analysis did not reveal the need for a specific deployment of French armed forces on Qatari soil.
– It should also be noted that the deployment of foreign forces in Qatar has not ended the blockade imposed by neighboring countries.
– The French authorities have constantly sought to maintain a balance in their relations with the various States involved in this crisis. The Qatari authorities were fully informed of our position and mutual trust was not broken. This is one of the reasons for the choice to acquire, from France, a batch of 12 Rafale combat aircraft at the end of 2017.
– The slowdown in military cooperation is mainly due to the significant demand on French forces in areas of operations (Sahel, Iraq, Estonia). New modes of cooperation were launched during this period: strategic exchanges, support for securing the World Cup.
– The Qatari authorities are very invested in supporting the resolution of conflicts (Sudan, Horn of Africa, Afghanistan, etc.) and helping populations in difficulty. The French authorities can count on Qatar in this context: Qatar’s participation in supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces, support for the evacuation of stranded nationals and people in need of protection from Afghanistan, mediation in the inter-Chadian dialogue.

In the rest of this paragraph related to Franco-Qatari cooperation, it is essential to see the academic point of view such as Christian Chesnot who analyzed the significant aspects of this bilateral relationship as follows:

According to him, over this long period of more than half a century, they have experienced uninterrupted development, with a particularly prosperous phase under the presidency of Nicolas Sarkozy between 2007 and 2012. Since the independence of Qatar in 1971, France wanted to develop an intense and trusting relationship with Doha which wanted to turn the page on British colonization and not put it under the American flag. France’s Gaullian posture in the 1967 Arab-Israeli war accelerated the rapprochement between the two countries. The voice of Paris, independent and concerned about the rights of Palestinians in particular and Arabs in general, was particularly appreciated in Qatar, and beyond in the region. A symbol of this mutual trust, Doha has relied on France to equip its national army.

The two diplomacies share the same requirement relating to respect for international law. The other important aspect: Paris and Doha are very committed to United Nations multilateralism. In Qatar and the Gulf, France did not want to abandon the monopoly of diplomacy to the Anglo-Saxons alone. Paris has always considered these countries as elements of regional stability. In return, Doha and its neighbors did not want to lock themselves into an exclusive tête-à-tête with the United States, considered at the time as the “policemen of the Gulf”. At the same period in the 1970s, Paris had also established intense military and nuclear cooperation with Iraq.

The first pillar of Franco-Qatari relations remains the field of defense. The two countries signed a joint agreement in this area. The sale of Rafale fighter jets to Doha is the symbol of this bilateral density.

Beyond the purely technical and financial aspect, this type of contract is a long-term commitment, structuring on a political level. Over the years, other sectors of cooperation have developed, in particular that of energy with the historic partnership of Total Énergies in the emirate, again a structuring element of the relationship. Added to this are other areas such as culture or sport.

On the French side, Qatar is a key country in the Persian Gulf. The friendship between the two is old. Paris has other partners in the region, notably the United Arab Emirates, where bilateral cooperation is also very dense on the military level, notably with the al-Dhafra naval air base in Abu Dhabi. In both cases, there is also a relationship of friendship maintained by successive French presidents and emirs.

On the Qatari side, France is seen as a country whose voice is unique in international relations. It has shown during the recent period that it can oppose the United States head-on, as was the case during the war in Iraq in 2003. A nuclear country and permanent member of the Security Council, France is for Qatar, an ally that counts and on which the emirate can rely. Finally, and this is not insignificant, France is a popular vacation spot for Qatari officials who appreciate the charms of the landscapes and French culture. First of all, there is this strategic and military partnership which continues. Qatar undoubtedly appreciates the reliability and consistency of Paris. The military campaign in Libya in 2011, where Qatari and French planes were engaged side by side, reinforced mutual trust. Doha was also able to count on the support of France to obtain the organization of the 2022 Football World Cup, as well as on the expertise of French companies to build the infrastructure linked to this global event. Relations between the two countries began in the 1970s and have continued to develop thereafter.

Certainly. Once independent, the Qatari authorities wanted to turn the page on the English protectorate. At the time, Doha needed to diversify its partnerships, which it continues to do today. Qatar has found a different and complementary ally in relation to Great Britain. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have signed countless agreements and conventions. Two stand out: the defense agreement concluded in 1994 and the tax convention in 2008.

The strong point is the longevity of the relationship and the complementarity between Paris and Doha. The weak point undoubtedly lies in the asymmetry between the State-to-State relationship, that is to say between the President of the Republic and the Emir, and the relationship at the level of the two peoples. Misunderstandings have sometimes tarnished the image of Qatar in France.

Given the complementarity that I mentioned above – France being a permanent member of the Security Council and the UN and a nuclear power – the two countries have an interest in collaborating, particularly on the African continent. France also welcomed Doha’s role in the Afghan crisis of the summer of 2021 and in the war between Hamas and Israel that started on October 7, 2023. The two countries showed that they were on the same page. waves, that is to say ensuring that Arab people can express themselves freely. In the Lebanese crisis, Paris is counting on the role of Qatar to find a way out of the crisis. Qatar is a major financier of the Lebanese army and QatarGas is partnering with TotalEnergies to explore Lebanon’s offshore gas resources. The conflict has certainly strengthened energy ties between the two countries, but also with other European countries. By stopping imports of Russian gas, France has signed a long-term gas supply contract. As I said above, France supported Qatar for the organization of the 2022 Football World Cup. French support also concerns the development of multifaceted cooperation in the fields of education, training professional, art, museums and culture.

Diplomatic relations between Qatar and France are good, but it’s true, nothing can ever be taken for granted. In a marriage, proof of love is needed for the couple to last over time. The arrival of new partners has today become the norm in relations between States. In the 1970s, the world was bipolar (United States and USSR) and there were few major nations. Today, new countries are emerging from what is called the “Global South” grouped within BRICS. There are no more exclusive relationships. “Diplomatic polygamy” is widespread. For France, this requires a duty to adapt to this new situation. At the time, it was difficult for France to choose its side since it is also the strategic ally of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt. However, France has done everything to avoid an escalation, and in particular the disaster scenario of an invasion of Qatar by its neighbors, as Kuwait experienced in 1990 with Iraq. Furthermore, France sold Rafale planes to Doha at that time, a sign of renewed support.

This crisis between Qatar and its neighbors has undoubtedly raised questions on Doha’s side about its partnership with Paris. But once again, France tried to maintain a form of balance between these Gulf allies. Some misunderstandings undoubtedly arose at that time. Fortunately, the situation remained under control and stabilized. France also welcomed the reconciliation of the al-Ula summit in January 2021. They will not change the major global balances. On the other hand, on certain crises (Lebanon), on certain issues (Hamas), the Franco-Qatari tandem can be useful and effective. There was a lack of more intense communication between the two peoples. The Emir of Qatar has never given an interview to the French press, which is a shame. The 2022 Football World Cup was an opportunity for the French to get to know the emirate better. On the Qatari side, criticism, even sometimes unfair, should not be taken literally. Perhaps we should organize a major exhibition at the IMA on the emirate (on the history of the pearl?).

 

*Doctoral researcher at the University de la Lumière, Lyon 2.