During this meeting, the economic and commercial subjects will also be addressed.
Le Monde with AFP
Joe Biden receives Monday 31 January the emir of Qatar, Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, solid ally of Washington, with the backdrop of the gas safety of Europe, linked to the conflict around Ukraine, between Other diplomatic and commercial issues.
It will be discussed during their meeting to “ensure the stability of the international energy supply”, according to the American Presidency, at the time of Washington and the Europeans are looking for alternatives if the Russian gas was missing, In case of attack of Russia against Ukraine.
The Gulf emirate holds immense reserves and is the world’s largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG, or LNG for acronym in English).
No “magic baguette”
However, a high account manager of the Biden administration, however, refused to deliver this delicate topic at a press conference on Sunday, stressing that the United States was discussing with “several” suppliers.
“Negotiations are ongoing” to redirect gas deliveries for Asian markets to Europe if Russian President, Vladimir Putin, interrupts supplies to Western Europe, “said France Agency -Presse a Qatari manager before the meeting.
But “Qatar does not have a” magic wand “to meet the gas shortages in Europe,” says Bill Farren-Price, director of the energy consulting firm.
The emirate is at most of its production capacities and it must already honor long-term contracts with Asia.
Strategic Allied
The visit will nevertheless be an opportunity for this country, which houses a large American base, to affirm its strong support for the United States in the region.
“They want to position itself on this most important strategic alloy niche for the United States in the Gulf,” says AFP Andreas Krieg, Professor at King’s College London.
The high manager of the White House pointed out on Sunday that the emirate had “really been alongside” the United States in the fight against terrorism in general and against the Islamic State group in particular.
During their maintenance, it should be discussed of these regional security issues, as well as negotiations around Iranian nuclear power.