The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, welcomed the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, at Lusail Palace.
Also in attendance from the Antiochian delegation were Metropolitan Athanasios Fahd of Latakia and its Dependencies, along with Archimandrite Parthenios Al Laty.
Discussions during the meeting centered on the situation in the Middle East, with a particular focus on Syria and Lebanon. Detailed deliberations on the Syrian crisis highlighted its critical nature, as the Patriarch emphasized the significance of Qatar’s role—and the Emir’s personal efforts—in fostering prosperity in light of the recent developments following the revolution.
The meeting also underscored the historical contributions of Christians in the Middle East. The Emir expressed his support and admiration for Patriarch John X and commended the Church’s efforts to promote religious brotherhood among all denominations as a foundation for prosperity and the rebuilding of Syria. Furthermore, the Emir reaffirmed Qatar’s unwavering support for the Antiochian Church as it navigates the many challenges it faces.
