Qatar

On the accession of Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the highest office of the State of Qatar, I most sincerely wish him success in what is now his mission.

I commend the gesture of Shaikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, who is calmly handing over his office today, with the sense that he has done his duty.

Back from my recent visit to Doha, I firmly believe that the new Qatari authorities will work towards developing the long-term partnership established between our two countries in every sphere./.