Doha, October 21 (QNA) - Qatar and France have discussed expanding bilateral investment and developing industrial and technological partnerships, with a focus on joint projects that support economic diversification and technology transfer.

The discussions took place during a meeting hosted by the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) with HE French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness Nicolas Forissier, attended by HE QBA Chairperson Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al-Thani and several business leaders from both countries.

The meeting also included Qatar Financial Centre chief executive Mansoor Al Khater and a French economic delegation representing major companies and business groups.

Forissier highlighted the depth of economic and strategic ties between Qatar and France, saying agreements reached during the French president's visit provide a foundation for practical cooperation and increased mutual investment.

He stressed the need to translate agreements into concrete projects and support small and medium-sized enterprises in both countries in establishing direct partnerships. He also called for closer cooperation in technology, advanced industries and innovation, noting that about EUR 3 billion had been allocated to support start-ups in France.

The French minister also proposed strengthening institutional links between the two countries' business communities, including exploring the establishment of a joint business council to expand investment partnerships.

HE Sheikh Faisal said Qatar-France relations should move beyond traditional trade towards strategic partnerships that enable Qatari private-sector companies to participate in investment, production and innovation in both countries and international markets.

He added that combining Qatar's investment capacity with French industrial and technological expertise could create opportunities for projects delivering added economic value.

Meanwhile, HE Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khalid Al-Thani, a board member of the association, highlighted the importance of localizing French technology and industries in Qatar, transferring industrial expertise and establishing joint production ventures to support diversification and strengthen private-sector competitiveness.

He called for a shift away from a business model centered on agency agreements, imports and distribution towards industrial and investment partnerships that allow Qatari companies to participate directly in manufacturing, production and development.

Qatar's infrastructure and investment environment, he said, position the country as a potential regional hub for advanced industries and services, with opportunities to export to regional and international markets in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Another board member, Saud Al Mana, stressed the need for direct engagement with French companies, the exchange of investment opportunities and the identification of viable projects capable of supporting long-term partnerships.

Xavier Robert, chief executive of Societe Generale in Qatar and president of the CCI France Qatar, highlighted the contribution of French companies and their expertise to the Qatari economy. He encouraged them to expand their local presence and make greater use of available investment opportunities.

He described Qatar as a strategic gateway for French companies seeking to expand across the GCC region, citing its geographical position, infrastructure, investment climate and incentives for foreign investors.

The discussions covered potential cooperation in energy, industry, water management, engineering services, technology and finance, as well as energy efficiency, digital transformation, industrial automation and sustainability.

Participants also emphasized technology transfer, localizing industrial capabilities and specialized services, and increasing Qatari companies' participation in supply chains and major projects.

According to figures presented at the meeting, bilateral merchandise trade between Qatar and France reached approximately EUR 1.67 billion in 2025. Around 665 French companies operate in Qatar across a range of economic sectors.

The QBA said it would continue working with French economic institutions and participating companies to develop investment opportunities, advance joint projects and strengthen direct engagement between the two business communities.

The initiative aims to expand mutual investment and deepen economic cooperation between Qatar and France. (QNA)