A business luncheon hosted by the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) on Monday welcomed a delegation from MEDEF International, led by Arnaud Piéton, chairman of the France-Qatar Business Council. The event was attended by key figures from both sides, including French Ambassador Arnaud Pescheux and QBA Chairman Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, alongside several prominent Qatari business leaders.
The gathering, which took place to mark the French delegation’s visit, also saw participation from notable QBA members such as Sherida al-Kaabi, Saud al-Mana, and several others, who discussed mutual opportunities for collaboration. In his address, Sheikh Faisal highlighted the long-standing ties between Qatar and France, recalling that the first international visit by the QBA after its establishment in 2004 was to France. He also pointed out that France was one of the first nations with which the QBA signed cooperation agreements, establishing the foundation for fruitful partnerships.
Sheikh Faisal stressed Qatar’s ongoing interest in strengthening business relations with France, particularly through opportunities for investment in both countries. Last year, the QBA signed a memorandum of understanding with MEDEF International and several universities, aiming to foster collaboration between startups and business leaders in both nations, facilitating the development of high-value-added projects.
Piéton, for his part, emphasised the importance of increasing business exchanges between the two countries, noting that the visit included a number of French companies active in Qatar, particularly in sectors like energy and the environment. Both parties expressed a shared commitment to collaborating on projects, not just in Qatar and France, but also in international markets, across key sectors such as energy, water, and service-related industries.
The French delegation also highlighted the potential for joint ventures in various sectors, including healthcare, medical technology, tourism, and smart city solutions. QBA members responded by noting that Qatar’s economy is steadily progressing towards diversification in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. They pointed out the growing appeal of Doha to foreign investors, drawing hundreds of international trade delegations in recent years.
This continued partnership between Qatar and France is seen as mutually beneficial, with both sides aiming to leverage their expertise to enhance bilateral trade and cooperation. Through these collaborations, the two nations hope to advance their strategic development plans and create new opportunities in innovative sectors.
The luncheon concluded with renewed confidence in the potential for long-term economic partnerships, driven by shared interests in growth and innovation. As Qatar’s economy continues to diversify and attract global investment, such partnerships are expected to play a crucial role in its future development.
