Trump to Meet Qatari Leaders During Stopover En Route to Asia
United States President, Donald Trump is scheduled to hold a meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the country’s Prime Minister during a brief stopover at Al Udeid Air Base on Saturday, the White House has announced.
According to US officials, the meeting will take place as Air Force One refuels at the base, which hosts the regional headquarters of the US military and thousands of American troops.
The discussions are expected to centre on the ongoing efforts to sustain the fragile Gaza peace deal, in which Qatar has played a pivotal mediating role.
“Qatar remains a key partner in maintaining regional stability and supporting peace initiatives in Gaza,” a White House official said, adding that the meeting underscores Washington’s appreciation of Doha’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
President Trump is making the stop en route to Asia, where he will attend two major regional summits and engage in bilateral meetings with several world leaders, including China’s President Xi Jinping.
The visit marks Trump’s first trip to Asia since assuming office in January.
Observers say the brief talks with Qatari leaders highlight the strategic importance of Qatar to US interests in the Gulf region, particularly given its role in hosting Al Udeid Air Base one of the largest American military installations outside the United States.
The meeting is expected to touch on a range of issues, including regional security, counterterrorism cooperation, and energy partnerships, officials hinted.
