Doha, October 20 (QNA) - HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and HE President of the friendly French Republic, Emmanuel Macron held an official talks session at Lusail Palace this evening.

At the outset of the session, HH the Amir welcomed the French President and his accompanying delegation, wishing them a pleasant stay. He expressed great pleasure over this historic visit-the first state visit by a President of the French Republic to the State of Qatar-noting that it reflects the depth of bilateral relations and the strength of the strategic partnership between the two friendly nations. His Highness also expressed his aspiration to further enhance this partnership and cooperation across various fields.

For his part, HE the French President expressed his sincere thanks and deep appreciation to HH the Amir for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and the accompanying delegation. He affirmed his country's commitment to developing cooperative relations and advancing them toward broader horizons that meet the aspirations of both nations and their friendly peoples.

During the session, the two sides reviewed bilateral cooperation and the strategic partnership between the two countries, as well as ways to strengthen and develop them across various sectors, primarily the economic, investment, security, and defense spheres.

The session was attended by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani; HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al-Thani; HE Chief of the Amiri Diwan, Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khulaifi; and a lineup of Their Excellencies ministers and senior officials.

Also in attendance on the French side were HE Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans, Catherine Vautrin; HE Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noel Barrot; HE Minister Delegate attached to the Minister for the Armed Forces and Veterans, Alice Ruffo; and several other high-ranking officials.

HH the Amir and the French President had earlier held a bilateral meeting, during which they reviewed the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries, as well as developments in the region.

Upon his arrival at Lusail Palace, HE the French President was accorded an official reception ceremony. The ceremony began with a 21-gun salute, accompanied by a performance of the Qatari 'Ardha' traditional dance and displays by the horse and camel-mounted guards.

This was followed by the playing of both national anthems, after which the two sides exchanged introductions with the respective official delegations. (QNA)