Qatar and the US have close ties built on more than 50 years of cooperation on key political, commercial, social, and security objectives. Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and US Secretary of State H E Marco Rubio held the 7th Strategic Dialogue between Qatar and the US on December 17, 2025, in Washington, DC, with the participation of senior Qatari and US officials.
The dialogue addressed ways to enhance cooperation to support peace, security and investment. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the partnership as a force for peace and stability, emphasising their shared commitment to confronting regional and global threats. With regard to the security of the wider Middle East, the two ministers affirmed their support for efforts to achieve stability in Syria, combat terrorism, and strengthen the Syrian economy. Besides, the two sides discussed shared strategic priorities, including Gaza, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Haiti.
Qatar and the US reaffirmed their defence and security partnership as recognised in the Executive Order issued on September 29 regarding ensuring the security of Qatar. Both sides continue to strengthen regional deterrence capabilities, develop joint defence capabilities, and support economic growth through defence investments. The US affirmed its commitment to the security and territorial integrity of the Qatar, while Qatar stressed the importance of continued cooperation to confront common security challenges. Qatari defence investments contribute to strengthening regional deterrence, supporting the US defence industry, and creating quality jobs. The two sides also discussed the establishment of the first joint bilateral air defence command centre.
The US Secretary of State welcomed Qatar’s acquisition of advanced military equipment, including a $2bn deal with General Atomics for unmanned aircraft systems, as well as another $1bn agreement with Raytheon to enhance counter-drone capabilities.
Both sides expressed their intention to exchange best practices in the arts, through the working group on culture, sports and education, including possible cooperation on the ‘Art in Embassies’ programme and participation in Art Basel events. Besides, Qatar affirmed its commitment to cooperation in the hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by the US. The two sides also signed statements of intent regarding countering unmanned aircraft systems and civil aviation security.
