UK House of Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle Praises Qatar-UK Relations During Doha Visit

Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the British House of Commons, highlighted the significance of his visit to Doha, describing it as a crucial opportunity to strengthen the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Qatar and the United Kingdom. Speaking to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), Hoyle emphasized the importance of building on the strong ties between the two nations, particularly in political, economic, and parliamentary relations.

During his visit, Hoyle met with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to discuss key topics, including the Middle East peace process. He also held meetings with Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and Speaker of the Shura Council Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation and parliamentary relations.

Hoyle noted that the relationship between Qatar and the UK has flourished, particularly in economic and political arenas. He stressed the importance of increasing collaboration between the UK’s House of Commons and Qatar’s Shura Council through regular exchanges and visits. “The friendship has always been there, but we can now take it to a whole new level,” Hoyle remarked, underscoring the potential for deeper cooperation and understanding.

Parliamentary cooperation between the two countries was a key focus of Hoyle’s visit. He emphasized the value of joint meetings and the exchange of ideas, experiences, and knowledge between the two legislative bodies. These collaborations, according to Hoyle, would help build stronger political ties and promote shared interests in global peace and security.

The Speaker also acknowledged Qatar’s strategic importance in the Middle East, particularly in its efforts to mediate peace. He praised Qatar’s use of diplomatic “soft power” in facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties, particularly in the Israel-Palestine conflict, and its ability to bring together Egypt, the United States, and other key stakeholders. Hoyle further lauded Qatar’s humanitarian and diplomatic roles in addressing global crises, including its stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.

In his remarks, Hoyle called for a swift resolution to the ongoing violence in Palestine and Israel, supporting Qatar’s efforts to broker lasting peace. He reiterated the importance of the two-state solution, recognizing both Palestinian and Israeli rights.

Hoyle concluded by expressing his gratitude for the productive discussions in Doha, which he believes will lead to greater collaboration in areas such as investment, energy, industry, and defense.