US President Joe Biden received on Monday the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, at the White House.
At the beginning of the meeting, Biden thanked Sheikh Tamim for Doha's support in the evacuation efforts of US troops and allied forces from Afghanistan, describing Qatar as a reliable partner.
Qatar helped evacuate over 120,000 US citizens, citizens of US allies, and Afghan allies of the United States from Afghanistan last year.
Biden indicated that he would discuss with the Emir their bilateral relations, the situation in Afghanistan, Qatar's assistance to the Palestinians, and its role in combating terrorism, in addition to issues related to Gulf security and the stability of energy markets.
Biden announced that Boeing and Qatar Airways Group signed a $20 billion deal that will create "tens of thousands of good-paying jobs,” said Biden.
For his part, Prince Tamim said that Qatar is proud of the partnership with the United States, adding that his discussions will tackle regional files, including the Palestinian cause.
White House officials said the talks touched on a range of regional and international issues.
The two leaders discussed promoting security and prosperity in the Gulf and the Middle East region, ensuring the stability of global energy supplies, boosting trade cooperation and bilateral relations, and countering terrorism.
Ahead of his meeting with Biden, Emir Tamim met with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to discuss arms sales and other military issues as Doha seeks to acquire M-9 Reaper drones in a deal worth more than $500 million.
