Qatar and France Discuss Expanding Security Cooperation

September 1, 2026  |  Paris, France

Qatar and France have discussed further strengthening bilateral security cooperation during a meeting in Paris between HE Minister of Interior and Commander of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and HE Director General of the National Gendarmerie of the French Republic Gen. Hubert Bonneau.

Meeting held during visit to France

The meeting took place on Tuesday during the Qatari Minister of Interior's visit to France. The two officials reviewed opportunities to deepen and expand security cooperation between Qatar and France, with particular attention to sharing expertise, security training and closer coordination.

Focus on expertise and security training

The discussions highlighted the importance of exchanging professional knowledge and strengthening training links between Qatar's Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) and the French National Gendarmerie. Continued coordination between the two institutions is intended to support their long-standing security partnership and enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Partnership spanning more than 20 years

The relationship between Lekhwiya and the French National Gendarmerie has extended for more than two decades. The latest meeting underscored both sides' interest in maintaining that partnership while exploring ways to broaden practical cooperation and build on accumulated experience.

Strengthening Qatar-France security ties

The talks reflect the continuing security engagement between Qatar and France and the emphasis placed by both sides on institutional cooperation, professional training and the exchange of expertise. The meeting also provided an opportunity to reaffirm the enduring partnership between the two security bodies and their commitment to sustained coordination.

Source: Qatar News Agency (QNA), September 1, 2026