Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Finland Pekka Haavisto said that the State of Qatar and Finland have developing relations in many fields, indicating that there are many opportunities for cooperation between the two countries.

On the sidelines of his visit to Doha, Minister Haavisto said, in an interview to the Qatari newspaper Al Sharq, that the two countries enjoyed good relations and growing cooperation in numerous issues and occasions, especially at the United Nations; these include efforts to bring peace, security and stability to the various conflict areas, in addition to issues of common interest between the two sides. Additionally, he said that the two countries have permanent relations in trade and economy, as well as the political discussions and consultations that took place for the first time last year.

Regarding the next round of the Qatari-Finnish talks, the Finnish Minister for Foreign Affairs indicated that the next round of those talks is expected to take place in Doha, adding that they aim to raise the level of these relations at all levels.

He stated that they have many common ideas in this regard, pointing out that there are important areas of cooperation between the two countries, including cooperation in the fields of technology, communications and education, in addition to many large companies operating in the State of Qatar.

Minister Haavisto emphasized the importance of Doha's role in mediating and resolving conflicts and crises in the region, noting that Doha is working to bring lasting peace to Afghanistan through dialogue and the negotiating table.

On Qatari investments in Finland, Haavisto said that his country has many great investment opportunities. He welcomed any Qatari investments and companies that want to invest in Finland in various fields, which will contribute to the development of economic and trade relations between the two countries.

He added that they are very interested and ready to cooperate with Qatar in natural gas technology, as Finland is one of the most important countries in the natural gas network and securing its supplies because natural gas is an important part of its energy system.

At the end of the interview, Minister Haavisto praised Qatar's facilities for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, adding that he saw many facilities during his visit to Doha and spoke with those involved in this field, noting the clear work to guarantee the status and rights of workers in sports facilities.

He pointed out that Finland has excellent men and women football teams, and they are looking forward to Euro 2020, which Finland will participate in next year, and FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. (QNA)


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