Doha assures Dhaka of energy security support

Qatar on Thursday assured Bangladesh of all possible support in ensuring its energy security as the two countries discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation during a high-level meeting in the Qatari capital of Doha.

The assurance came when Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman called on Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani at the latter's office in Doha, according to a foreign ministry press release.

During the meeting, the Qatari Prime Minister described Bangladesh as a “brotherly country” and assured that Doha would extend all possible support to Dhaka in ensuring energy security, particularly amid the prevailing challenging circumstances.

Khalilur Rahman conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to the Qatari leadership and expressed Bangladesh’s solidarity with Qatar.

He also commended Qatar’s constructive and responsible role in promoting peace, security and stability in the region, noting its significance for the wider region and beyond.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated Khalilur Rahman on his election as President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

He reiterated Qatar’s commitment to extending support and cooperation to Khalilur Rahman for the successful discharge of his responsibilities as UNGA president.

The foreign minister invited the Qatari Prime Minister to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.

Later, Khalilur Rahman held a separate meeting with Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi and discussed issues of mutual interest.

Prime Minister’s Adviser for Finance and Planning Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit, Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir and senior officials from both countries were present during the meetings.