"The Qataris hope we can move on to a new stage, and we are on the same wavelength. We think it is necessary that the Iraqis recover their sovereignty as quickly as possible, which is a condition if things are to improve, and that the United Nations ... contribute to the return to normalcy," she told reporters.

Alliot-Marie described the situation in Iraq as "worrying."

She cited the "humanitarian situation of the Iraqis, the attacks against military personnel of the (US-led) coalition, and the fallout abroad in terms of terrorism."

The French defense minister, on her third visit to Qatar in 15 months, held talks with Crown Prince Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and army Chief of Staff General Ali bin Hamad al-Attiyah.

Qatar served as forward command headquarters of US-led forces who invaded Iraq in March 2003 and overthrew the regime of president Saddam Hussein.

Qatari officials are "keen on seeing democratization promoted throughout the region," said Alliot-Marie, who is due to also visit Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan during her tour.

WAR.WIRE