Qatar signs agreement with U.S. for purchase of F-15 Fighter Jets

The State of Qatar and the United States signed on Wednesday an agreement for the purchase of F-15 fighter jets, with an initial cost of $12 billion.
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Minister of State for Defense Affairs Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, currently on a visit to Washington, signed the agreement on behalf of the State of Qatar, while U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis represented the American side

Speaking to QNA, Dr. Al Attiyah said the agreement underscores the "longstanding commitment of the State of Qatar in jointly working with our friends and allies in the United States in advancing our military cooperation for closer strategic collaboration in our fight to counter violent extremism and promote peace and stability in our region and beyond."

The minister added that the purchase agreement will directly contribute in the creation of 60,000 new jobs in 42 states across the United States.

"We believe that this agreement will propel Qatar's ability to provide for its own security while also reducing the burden placed upon the United States military in conducting operations against violent extremism," Dr. Al Attiyah said.

"Qatar and the United States have solidified their military cooperation by having fought together side by side for many years now in an effort to eradicate terrorism and promote a future of dignity and prosperity," he added.

Dr. Al Attiyah added that the signing of the agreement is "yet another step in advancing our strategic and cooperative defense relationship with the United States and we look forward to continuing our joint military efforts with our partners here in the U.S." (QNA)