KHARTOUM, Sudan: Sudan's Foreign Ministry spokesman says President Omar al-Bashir is traveling to the tiny Gulf state of Qatar next week for a conference on development.

Qatar has offered to host talks between Sudan's government and Darfur rebels. Though no date has been set, rebels have visited the small country to prepare for possible negotiations.

Ali Sadiq, Sudanese foreign ministry spokesman, said Sunday that al-Bashir is not expected to meet rebels.

The pro-government Sudan Media Center Web site said the president will meet Chad's President Idriss Deby.

Chad's support for negotations is essential. The two countries recently restored relations after a six-month rift due to mutual accusations over supporting other's rebels.