By Fazeena Saleem
DOHA: A top British defence official has praised military ties with Qatar and said the UK is keen to provide further military training and exercise opportunities to Qatari Armed Forces.
The UK is looking forward to helping Qatari Armed Forces improve their capabilities, said Philip Dunne , Minister of State for Defence Procurement.
He was on an official visit to Doha and met Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah and military officials. “We had a good and frank exchange on areas of mutual interest. I’m here to encourage relationships between the UK and Qatari armed forces,” said Dunne.
“I think Qatar has an increasing role to play in maintaining stability in the region. The UK is happy to play its part by helping the armed forces here improve their capabilities and continue to prove the increasing role within GCC security activities,” he added.
Both countries have a long standing relationship as of military to military level, endorsed by a defence corporation agreement between them.
“For many, many years — decades — members of the Qatari Armed Forces coming to the UK for training… The UK is looking to find ways that can work together to learn from each other, to provide more training and exercises opportunities,” said Dunne.
Dunne was appointed minister in May 2015, having served as minister for defence, equipment, support and technology since September 2012. Since then he has visited Qatar several times.
Referring to increasing defence business between Qatar and the UK, he said, “When I first came here for the first time in 2012, there was almost no or very small amount of UK-Qatar defence business, and today there is a growing business.
“So we see several UK companies having capabilities, which is an interest to Qatari Armed Forces.”
The UK will make a strong presence at the defence exhibition DIMDEX 2016 in March, reflected ongoing commitment UK companies have to Qatar and the region, he added.
“The defence secretary intends to attend DIMDEX 2016 and will have a naval vessel present, one of our most capable ships — HMS defender type 45 class. It is a new state-of-the-art vessel and has an air defence role, so it has been active, part of the aircraft carrier, operating in the Gulf, helping protect the French and American aircraft carriers,” said Dunne.
Asked whether falling oil prices will effect defence procurement, Dunne said, “We don’t see the oil price will have a long-term effect, there can be a short-term effect. Countries tend to prioritise defence spending when they feel threatened.”
The Peninsula
