Qatar and Austria to strengthen bilateral ties and boost investments
Austria and Qatar aim to strengthen the bilateral ties. Both countries have agreed to enhance economic cooperation and will also invest in technology and renewable energy of both countries. The meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Yesterday, H E Michael Linhart, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria and H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs announced this during a press conference.
“I agreed with His Excellency that we will work together to promote mutual investments between the two countries in various sectors, especially the technology and renewable energy sector, and there will be an exchange of visits to discuss opportunities between the two countries,” said H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.
“We also discussed developments on the international scene, including those related to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, the Iran nuclear agreement, and the latest developments in Afghanistan. Qatar understands international concerns about Afghanistan, and we will work together with all friendly countries to enhance security and stability in Afghanistan and try to preserve the gains of Afghan people,” said H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.
“Qatar appreciates the role of Austria in achieving international security and stability, and we look forward to working with them and continuing consultations with them in all different fields,” he added.
“Since we have agreed to help Afghanistan and alleviate the difficulties of humanitarian situation there, humanitarian aid should not be politicised and not be linked to any obligation for which the government is responsible. We cannot punish the people of Afghanistan because of the presence of certain forces in power,” he said.
Qatar’s priority is engaging with Afghanistan rather than recognizing the Taliban government, Sheikh Mohammed said in response to a question about whether Qatar would recognize the Taliban government.
“The State of Qatar is a very important economic partner, and we are keen to strengthen our partnerships and economic relations, especially at this stage in which we are trying to overcome the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and restore momentum to the Austrian economy,” said Michael Linhart.
For especially infrastructure works related to FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Austrian companies in Qatar have contributed a lot.
The Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria praised Qatar’s role on the Afghan issue. He stressed the need for supporting the Afghan people and protect their rights. “Afghanistan cannot become a security black hole,” he said.
A humanitarian aid worth ¤20m has been provided by Austria, he said. He also noted that Austria will continue their support in collaboration with the European Union.
