The Chief of Staff of the French Naval Forces, by virtue of France's presidency of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), announced the full membership of Qatar in the Organisation of the Indian Ocean Coastal States, during the seventh Indian Ocean Maritime Symposium (IONS), hosted by the France in Reunion Island, from June 28-July 1.

The announcement comes from the principle of co-operation aimed at developing Qatar's relations with specialised international and regional organisations and agencies, which constitute an important factor in maintaining security and stability of the region. Brigadier General (Navy) Abdullah Shaheen al-Ateeq, head of the delegation of Qatar participating in the Indian Ocean Maritime Symposium, delivered a speech in which he reviewed the importance of Qatar joining this leading international organisation in accordance with the principles stipulated in the organisation's charter.