French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has embarked on his first official visits abroad since taking office, marking a significant diplomatic engagement early in his tenure. The trips to Qatar and Morocco underscore France’s strategic priorities in the Middle East and North Africa.
On Tuesday, Lecornu arrived in Doha to convey France’s condolences following the passing of Qatar’s former Emir, Cheikh Hamad ben Khalifa al-Thani, who ruled from 1995 until his abdication in 2013. The visit, attended by former Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, reflects the deep ties between the two nations. The late Emir was credited with transforming Qatar into a modern, influential state through bold reforms and a forward-thinking foreign policy.
Cheikh Hamad’s funeral took place on Sunday evening, attended by global leaders. The French government highlighted his role in shaping contemporary Qatar, emphasizing his legacy of modernization and innovative diplomacy.
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