China, Qatar pledge to set up strategic partnership

Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) holds a welcoming ceremony for Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad al-Thani, Emir of Qatar, before their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 3, 2014. Xi held talks with the visiting Emir of Qatar in Beijing on Monday. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

BEIJING, Nov. 3  -- China and Qatar on Monday pledged to build a strategic partnership that would result in heightened bilateral practical cooperation.

The pledge came during Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting with Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad al-Thani, Emir of Qatar, who is on a state visit to China from Nov. 2 to 4 at the invitation of Xi.

Xi welcomed Qatar to participate in the building of the Silk Road economic belt and the 21st-century maritime Silk Road.

"China is willing to establish a long-term stable energy partnership with Qatar; and boost cooperation and investment in infrastructure, telecommunication and finance as well as joint investment in third countries," Xi said.

He called on the two militaries to enhance communication and cooperation in security, law enforcement and counterterrorism measures. He hoped Qatar would expedite negotiations of a Free Trade Agreement between China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

Qatar is an important country in the Middle East and Gulf region and a major partner of China in the region, Xi said.

"We decided to upgrade our bilateral ties to a strategic relationship during your visit, which is an important milestone," Xi said.

Xi stressed that China supported Qatar's sovereignty and territorial integrity; its efforts to safeguard national security and stability; and would support it playing a unique role in regional affairs.