Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, will meet on Thursday, April 17, 2025, to discuss a range of current issues, including regional and humanitarian challenges, bilateral relations, and the war in Ukraine, according to a statement from the Kremlin.
The two leaders are expected to address ways to strengthen cooperation between their countries, with a particular focus on economic and humanitarian areas. The situation in the Middle East and the conflict in Ukraine will also be at the heart of their discussions.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Qatar has maintained a position of neutrality, like many Arab nations. It continues to call for a peaceful resolution through diplomatic dialogue. Doha has also emerged as a key mediator between Moscow and Kyiv, particularly by facilitating the return of children displaced from combat zones.
According to Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this mediation has helped reunite several dozen children with their families, both in Ukraine and in Russia. On the economic front, trade between Russia and Qatar amounted to $175.5 million in 2021. Russian exports accounted for approximately $124.2 million, while imports from Qatar reached $51.45 million, according to Russian customs data.