Emir of Qatar says looks forward to Putin's visit shortly

MOSCOW. April 17 (Interfax) - Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the emir of Qatar, invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit his country shortly.

"Members of the Qatari delegation and I would like to say thank you very much for the warm reception and hospitality. We look forward to seeing you in Qatar shortly," Sheikh Tamim said following negotiations with the Russian president in Moscow on Thursday.

Putin described the Qatari emir's visit to Russia as meaningful and very helpful for promoting ties between the two countries.

"I am sure all the goals that have been set will be achieved," he said.