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Putin hails Qatar as important partner in MENA

MOSCOW, June 15 (KUNA) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday described Qatar as a significant partner to Russia in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
"Qatar is our important and reliable partner in the Middle East and North Africa region," Putin said during a meeting with Qatari Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the sidelines of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia.
He added that there is considerable interaction in investment activities and investment funds are operating effectively.
The Russian leader noted that both sides are considering joint ventures worth USD 10 billion, commending cultural and humanitarian ties, as well as military technical cooperation.
Putin voiced hope that the Amir of Qatar would brief him on the progress made in the preparations for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
On his part, the Amir of Qatar said his country is willing to boost joint investments, lauding relations with Russia as "strong, deep and solid".
He added that the bilateral relations got a special boost and development in the past several years, especially in such areas as energy and investment.
He spoke highly of the support of the Russian 2018 Organizing Committee to Qatar for hosting the huge event.
"Several Russian experts who were directly involved in the preparations for the World Cup in the Russian Federation are currently helping Qatar to prepare for 2022," he said. (end) as.mt