QBA and MEDEF International Forge Investment Pathways

The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) hosted a business luncheon to foster investment opportunities with a delegation from MEDEF International, led by Arnaud Piéton, the Chairman of the France-Qatar Business Council. This gathering took place in Qatar and included significant figures such as H E Arnaud Pescheux, the French Ambassador to Qatar, emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

The QBA was represented by its Chairman, Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, alongside board members including Sherida Al Kaabi and Saud Al Mana. The meeting also welcomed other prominent QBA members, such as Salah Al Jaidah, Khaled Al Mannai, and several others, who participated in discussions geared towards enhancing bilateral cooperation.

Sheikh Faisal opened the meeting by acknowledging the historical relations between Qatar and France. He highlighted that the QBA’s first international visit after its establishment in 2004 was to France, a country with which QBA has maintained strong cooperative ties. His remarks underscored the Qatari business community’s eagerness to explore investment and collaboration opportunities with their French counterparts.

The QBA has previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding with MEDEF International and several universities, aimed at facilitating interactions between startups and established business leaders in both countries. This agreement supports the development of high value-added projects, a goal that both organizations view as crucial for their economic partnerships.

In his address, Arnaud Piéton expressed gratitude to the QBA for hosting the meeting. He reiterated MEDEF International’s commitment to increasing exchanges between business leaders from both nations, with a focus on enhancing commercial relations. The delegation included representatives from French firms active in Qatar across various sectors, including energy and the environment, which are pivotal for future collaboration.

Both sides recognized the potential for joint projects in key areas such as energy, electricity, water, and environmental services. Discussions also revolved around the economic development currently underway in Qatar, with QBA members emphasizing their role in studying potential investment frameworks that can facilitate stronger partnerships.

The visiting delegation featured major French companies, including TotalEnergies, Technip Energies, and Airbus, among others. Their presence underscores the intent to deepen economic collaboration and exploration of opportunities in various sectors, marking a significant step in the ongoing relationship between Qatar and France.

As the meeting concluded, both parties expressed optimism about the future of their economic ties, reflecting a shared vision for mutual growth and development.