Doha: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Qatar's capital, Doha, as the second stop of his Gulf tour, which seeks to discuss cooperation in the energy and arms sectors. His arrival from Saudi Arabia marks a continued effort to strengthen ties with key Gulf states.
According to Anadolu Agency, Merz was greeted at Hamad International Airport by Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani. While the Qatari state news agency confirmed his arrival, specific details regarding the duration of his stay remain undisclosed.
Earlier, Merz engaged in discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud in Riyadh, though the Saudi Press Agency did not provide further details on the outcomes of these talks.
The German Chancellor's Gulf tour also includes a scheduled visit to the United Arab Emirates. German broadcaster Deutsche Welle reported that the primary aim of Merz's visits is to strengthen cooperation with the Gulf nations in terms of energy supplies and arms.
This tour underscores Germany's strategic interests in solidifying partnerships within the Gulf region, focusing on critical sectors that bolster both economic and security ties.