Trump Meets Qatari Emir Amid Luxury and Diplomacy

US President Donald Trump arrived in Qatar on a four-day Middle East tour, meeting with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at the luxurious Lusail Palace. Trump praised the palace’s architecture, saying, “The job you’ve done is second to none. You look at this, it’s so beautiful. As a construction person, I’m seeing perfect marble. This is what they call perfecto.”

The meeting focused on military cooperation, regional security, and potential business deals. Trump expressed his willingness to attend Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Turkey if Russian President Vladimir Putin also attends. The visit has been overshadowed by controversy surrounding a $400m luxury plane gifted to Trump by Qatar.

Trump defended the gift, saying, “Why wouldn’t I accept the gift? We’re giving to everybody else.” Critics argue that the gift may influence US policy decisions. The trip aims to secure investment deals and promote US-Qatar relations. Trump has also lifted sanctions on Syria, urging the country’s new leader to normalize relations with Israel.

Trump’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East continue with stops in Qatar and potentially Turkey, amidst complex regional dynamics and business deal negotiations.

Trump is now holding a meeting with the Qatari Emir, Sheikh Tamin bin Hamad al-Thani, at the luxurious Lusail Palace.

As expected, it’s another lavish reception for the US president in the oil-rich Gulf state.