US President Barack Obama on Tuesday praised Qatar as a “strong partner” in the fight against the Takfiri group operating Iraq and Syria, ISIL Tuesday.

US President Barack Obama on Tuesday praised Qatar as a “strong partner” in the fight against the Takfiri group operating Iraq and Syria, ISIL Tuesday.

As he hosted Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in the Oval Office, Obama said: “Qatar is a strong partner in our coalition to degrade and ultimately defeat ISIL.”

“We are both committed to making sure that ISIL is defeated, to making sure that in Iraq there is an opportunity for all people to live together in peace,” Obama said.

Qatar has criticism, including from neighboring Gulf Arab states, of using its wealth to back armed groups in the region, including the Takfiri militants.

 “There are areas where we disagree with the Qataris,” said White House spokesman Josh Earnest, adding there were more areas where interests “overlap.”

Speaking after the meeting, the emir also praised the strong bilateral relationship, and urged efforts to advance the Middle East peace process.

“We have to find a solution for Palestine. And I’m happy to learn, to hear from you Mr. President, that you’re committed,” he said.
Libya and Yemen were also discussed during the meeting.