Daijiworld Media Network- Doha

Doha, May 15: In a significant diplomatic and economic development, Qatar and the United States on Wednesday signed a series of landmark agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors, including defence, aviation, and security, following high-level talks between Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and US President Donald Trump.

The Emiri Diwan, Qatar’s administrative office, confirmed that the deals were inked in Doha, as part of President Trump’s maiden overseas tour since returning to office in January. The agreements underscore a deepening strategic partnership between the two nations amid evolving regional dynamics.

Topping the list is a Boeing aircraft purchase agreement hailed as “historic” by the White House. Valued at a staggering $96 billion, the deal involves Qatar Airways acquiring up to 210 state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft, a move expected to significantly bolster Qatar’s aviation fleet and global air connectivity.

In a notable push towards defence cooperation, both countries signed a statement of intent covering over $38 billion in potential investments. The agreement includes provisions for:
• Enhancing operations at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

• Future collaborations on air and maritime security infrastructure.

Further bolstering defence ties, two major letters of offer and acceptance were signed. These cover the sale of:

• MQ-9B drones from US-based General Atomics.

• A cutting-edge counter-drone system developed by Raytheon Technologies.

These agreements collectively amount to approximately $3 billion, according to details released by the White House.

A joint declaration of cooperation was also formalised, further cementing Qatar-US relations and aligning strategic interests, particularly in defence and energy security.

During the high-level discussions, the two leaders exchanged views on pressing regional and international developments, particularly the volatile Middle East situation. The Qatari Emir reaffirmed his country's commitment to fostering regional peace and stability.

President Trump took a moment to publicly thank Qatar for its role in facilitating the release of Edan Alexander, the last known living American hostage in Gaza, describing it as a “hopeful step” towards securing the freedom of remaining captives.

The Doha visit forms part of Trump’s broader Gulf tour, which includes upcoming stops in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Speaking at a state dinner held at the Lusail Palace, Trump not only praised Qatari leadership but also touched upon his 2024 election victory and gains in US military recruitment, reiterating his administration’s focus on restoring American global leadership.

As Qatar and the US step into a renewed phase of bilateral collaboration, the deals signed in Doha are being seen as a strategic and economic milestone, with wide-ranging implications for aviation, defence, and geopolitical cooperation in the region.