The diplomatic, consular and representative missions of Qatar celebrated the occasion of the National Day, in commemoration of the founder of the state, Sheikh Jassim Bin Mohamed Bin Thani, under the slogan: "We praise you, the Lord of the Throne, We accept your judgment in all actions."
Heads of the diplomatic, consular and representative missions abroad raised their highest greetings and blessings to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, and all the Qatari people on this occasion, wishing Qatar more progress and prosperity. The diplomatic celebrations in the capitals and cities of the world witnessed the participation of high-level officials, which reflected Qatar's distinguished relations with the countries of the world.
United States
In New York, the permanent delegation of Qatar to the United Nations held a virtual celebration on the occasion of the National Day, with the participation of President of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly Volkan Bozkr, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohamed, as well as ambassadors accredited to the United Nations and officials of the United Nations Secretariat.
In her opening statement during the ceremony, HE the permanent representative of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, affirmed that the National Day is an opportunity to reflect on the past and future of Qatar, and Ambassador Sheikha Alya reviewed the achievements made by Qatar, expressing her pride in the accomplishments.
She emphasised that Qatar seeks to create a balance between economic and environmental development goals. In the field of human rights, Ambassador Sheikha Alya referred to the declaration issued by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, at the opening of the 49th regular session of the Shura Council, to hold elections next October, in accordance with the constitution of Qatar and to ensure the practice of the constitutional right for all citizens.
She expressed her pride that Qatar is one of the most effective countries to play the role of mediation and its commitment to achieving comprehensive peace and stability through dialogue, referring to the peace conference hosted by Doha for the Afghan parties. With regard to confronting the Coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19), she stated that Qatar has given priority to international cooperation in confronting and addressing the pandemic, stressing that it will continue its efforts in supporting international efforts to spread and distribute vaccines in a fair way to countries in need.
For his part, President of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly Volkan Bozkr extended his congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, and to the government and people of Qatar on the occasion of the celebration of the National Day, and praised the role that Qatar has played since its accession to the United Nations in 1971.
Bozkr added that Qatar is leading the way for education for all and is at the forefront of international efforts to provide humanitarian aid to the needy, and to encourage the principle of mediation and peace-keeping. He also praised the leadership role played by Qatar to help the least developed countries, noting that Doha is hosting the Least Developed Countries Conference in Jan 2022.
Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohamed, praised the efforts made by Qatar to combat the coronavirus pandemic at the national, regional and global levels, and expressed her gratitude and deep appreciation for the generous assistance provided by Qatar to the various programmes and activities of the United Nations, and said that Qatar is an important partner in the international community and a defender of multilateral action, expressing her aspiration to continue working with Qatar now and after the post-coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
The ceremony included displaying a video on the construction of stadiums by Qatar to host the World Cup 2022, where HE Sheikha Alya explained that these stadiums are a model of sustainability and advanced technology that provides a new global standard for the benefit of future generations.
Italy
In Rome, the Qatar embassy held a virtual ceremony on the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Italy Abdulaziz bin Ahmed al-Malki said in a speech on this occasion that everyone is celebrating within the framework of protection and safety measures, which is an approach that the world has not been used to, and everyone hopes to change it at the earliest possible opportunity. Qatar has supported the efforts of the international community and provided the necessary assistance to more than 70 countries and international organizations, stressing that Qatar will continue its efforts to support the manufacture of the vaccine and provide it in a fair way to the most needy countries.
The ambassador stressed that Qatar, in this exceptional circumstance represented by the outbreak of the coronavirus, has paid close attention to human rights, especially workers' rights, the need to preserve the health and safety of all workers, regardless of their place and work conditions, and full attention to their economic and legal rights, and Qatar has adopted an integrated package of measures to preserve the health of citizens and residents and the country's economy. Financial incentives were allocated in the amount of QR75bn, including guarantees to banks of QR5bn within the salary support programme and at the level of health procedures, examination, treatment and healthcare were provided to all citizens and residents of Qatar free of charge.
The ambassador added, during the past two decades, Qatar has moved with strong determination towards building an open and tolerant society where people of different religious beliefs and cultures feel that they are at their home and for this purpose Qatar established a number of institutions that enhance interfaith dialogue and combat intolerance and religious extremism.
Ambassador al-Malki said that the bilateral relations between Qatar and Italy are excellent and distinctive relations at all levels, including political, economic and military, which depend on respect, mutual trust and common interests, stressing that they have reached the strategic level. He pointed out that the volume of trade exchange between the two countries has achieved high increases compared to what it used to be, due to mutual investments and bilateral investments through sovereign funds and others in various sectors.
Sweden
In Stockholm, the Qatar embassy celebrated the National Day. The ceremony was attended by Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of Sweden Robert Rydberg. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Qatar to Sweden Sheikha Moza bint Nasser al-Thani, and a non-resident ambassador of Qatar to Norway, affirmed that the National Day marks a turning point in the process of building a modern, prosperous and developed country as it is a great opportunity to express our pride in our past and present. The ambassador pointed to the pivotal and vital role played by Qatar on the regional and international arenas, providing help to the needy around the world, and its medical assistance to more than 70 countries to combat the coronavirus pandemic and the relief for people suffering from ongoing crises and conflicts around the world, as well as the crucial role in the peacemaking process and conflict resolution to make the Middle East a better place for stability and prosperity.
The ambassador said that the National Day is a dear opportunity to emphasise the historical and strategic ties between Qatar and Sweden and Norway, as our common goal is to achieve peace, stability and international prosperity. For his part, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Robert Rydberg extended his warmest congratulations and sincere congratulations to Qatar on the occasion of its National Day, and referred to the positive developments in bilateral relations, stressing Sweden's keenness to develop relations to new dimensions, praising the measures taken by Qatar regarding its hosting of the World Cup 2022, and the migrant worker issue.
Kenya
In Nairobi, the Qatar embassy celebrated National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Kenya Jabr bin Ali al-Dossari, stressed in a speech that Qatar is steadily moving towards growth, modernisation and regional and international leadership. At the local level, Qatar has achieved great developments, including the historic announcement of holding the first elections for the Shura Council in October of next year, and thus the country is moving towards strengthening established traditions of fair and rational governance linked to the people, and strengthens Qatar's National Vision 2030 aimed at completing the building of the state of institutions and the expansion of popular participation in decision-making.
He said that the State has continued the march of development in all fields, achieved self-sufficiency in the agricultural and industrial sectors, established many farms and factories, and established giant companies and projects, including the 2022 World Cup facilities. The envoy added: "On the regional and international level, Qatar has succeeded in strengthening its strategic relations with a large number of countries in the world and the region, expanding its network of cooperation and strategic partnerships, and strengthening solid diplomatic bridges with influential global powers, and its successes have emerged in mediation.
The success of mediation, dispute resolution and conflict resolution efforts has become linked to the name of Qatar, and its efforts to mediate a solution to the conflict in Darfur in Sudan, and between the Afghan government and the Taliban movement, are the latest and most prominent examples of the success of Qatari mediation."
The envoy stressed that the Qatari-Kenyan relations are characterised by durability and development in a number of diplomatic, political, military and economic fields, and stressed that diplomatic relations have witnessed development and prosperity to broader horizons of cooperation, adding that the two countries signed many agreements and memoranda of mutual understanding in the political fields, commercial, investment, legal, transport, aviation, employment, etc, and exchanged visits at the highest levels. He noted the exchange of Qatar and Kenya during the last period of support in regional and international forums.
Greece
In Athens, the Qatar embassy celebrated, via video communication technology, the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Greece Abdulaziz Ali al-Naama said that the celebration this year comes (remotely) in application of precautionary and preventive measures to preserve the health and safety of everyone. He added: "Within the framework of serious and continuous work to address the coronavirus pandemic, Qatar has worked to strengthen its medical sector, as it provided assistance to many countries and Qatar Airways continued to operate its flights to return thousands of travelers stranded outside their countries due to closures caused by the outbreak of the virus."
The envoy indicated that the principles of the foreign policy of Qatar are based on the foundations of peace, security, stability, cooperation and friendship among all countries. He noted the announcement of the Shura Council elections to be held in October of next year, and referred to the proclamation of Sept 9, 2020 of every year as an International Day to Protect Education from Attacks, based on the proposal of Her Highness Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, and this is in addition to all the initiatives of the Education Above All Foundation, pointing to Qatar hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup and affirming that it will be an exceptional edition in history.
The envoy added: "Since 2007, diplomatic ties have been born between Qatar and the Greek Republic, as we are witnessing a flourishing in bilateral relations between the two countries, and today we renew the bonds of cooperation with our common heritage, cultural exchange and communication and historical ties to ensure a better future for the two peoples". The ambassador expressed thanks and praise to the government and to the friendly Greek people, and to the deep-rooted and historic friendship between Qatar and Greece.
Singapore
In Singapore, the Qatar embassy celebrated, the occasion of the National Day, by sending an electronic note to the Singaporean government represented by the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and to all diplomatic, consular and representative missions accredited to Singapore, which included expressing the embassy's thanks and appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Ministry, and the missions for their permanent support by participating in official events of Qatar during the past years, and announcing that, given the current circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic, this year's celebration will be remotely, and the note also included a link to an introductory video on Qatar.
At the conclusion of the note, ambassador of Qatar to Singapore Saud bin Jassim al-Jufairi referred to the strong bilateral relations between Qatar and Singapore, expressing his wishes for more success, progress and prosperity for the relations between the two friendly countries. The envoy also received a number of congratulations electronically and through direct visual communication, where he expressed his thanks, gratitude and appreciation to the heads of mission, expressing his hope for improvement and development of the conditions related to the coronavirus pandemic, and to welcome them personally during the celebration of the National Day of Qatar next year.
Sri Lanka
In Colombo, the Qatar embassy held a virtual ceremony on the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Sri Lanka Jassim bin Jaber al-Sorour received congratulations from a number of ministers, members of Parliament, senior officials in the Sri Lankan government, heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Colombo. The Sri Lankan officials expressed their praise of the existing bilateral relations between the two countries in all fields, and praised the achievements and development witnessed by Qatar, expressing their sincere wishes for the government and people of Qatar further progress and prosperity.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
In Sarajevo, the Qatar embassy celebrated virtually the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Bosnia and Herzegovina Sultan bin Ali al-Khater said in a speech that the celebration of National Day this year comes amid all humanity facing the coronavirus pandemic. He stressed that Qatar has managed to control the spread of the pandemic. The envoy referred to the support of Qatar to the international community, and its provision of the necessary assistance to more than 70 countries and international organisations, in recognition of the importance of international cooperation in addressing the pandemic.
The envoy stressed that the relations of Qatar with Bosnia and Herzegovina are solid. It is based on friendship and brotherhood, and have been documented through the signing of many agreements and bilateral cooperation protocols, in addition to the exchange of visits between officials of the two countries at the highest levels. He referred to Qatar's political and humanitarian support for Bosnia and Herzegovina by providing assistance in times of crisis, the last of which is providing medical assistance to help it cope with the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
Romania
In Bucharest, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Romania Abdullah bin Nasser al-Humaidi affirmed that this occasion has profound connotations in the consciences and hearts of all citizens, as Qatar has become a civilisational beacon and a shining pioneering model in all fields of life because it puts the citizen in priority.
He said, "The policy of the State of Qatar and its projects in all fields, such as education, culture, health, sports, youth, and social care to raise the level of well-being of the citizen and resident on its lands, respect his rights and preserve his dignity, have been affirmed by the legislative structure represented in the permanent constitution of the country, where elections will be organised for the Shura Council next October which is an expression of its respect for the foundations of democracy and the freedom of the citizen and his rights, an embodiment of what our leadership believes in of the authentic social and moral values affirmed by Islamic law and the ancient traditions of the Qatari society."
He added: "Our country has recorded the highest rates of development on the list of Arab countries and ranked 27th in the world in the ranking of global peace indicators 2020 issued by the Institute for Economics and Peace in Australia, and according to the index of the most secure and socially peaceful countries. The report ranked Qatar first in the Arab world and 16 globally among 163 countries." He added: "This makes Qatar one of the 20 safest countries in the world, and Qatar topped the index of women's participation in the workforce by 58.3% according to the latest study issued by the Arab Monetary Fund. Qatar also ranked 31st globally among 186 countries included in the Economic Freedom Index to enhance the investment climate. "
He noted that Qatari diplomacy played a mediating role in resolving many disputes at the regional and international levels, which would contribute to strengthening peace and security. He stressed that peace, according to Qatari diplomacy, is not only extinguishing the fire of violence, but rather achieving justice, cooperation, political and economic integration, and rejection of injustice and exclusion.
On this occasion, he affirmed his pride in the 27th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with Romania, looking forward to further cooperation in various fields of common interest, foremost of which is the economic aspect, and praised the bilateral cooperation in combating the coronavirus pandemic, the exchange of experiences and information, and the medical assistance provided to Romania.
Sudan
In Khartoum, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. Due to the circumstances of the coronavirus (Covid-19), the celebration this year was limited to the diplomatic staff of the embassy represented by the charge d'affairs of Qatar to Sudan Talal Farhan al-Anzi, Brigadier General Abdullah bin Muhanna al-Raml al-Mannai, Military Attache, and Abdullah Matar al-Dossary a diplomat at the embassy, Abdullah Muhammad Abdullah al-Subaie, a diplomat at the embassy, Brigadier General Muhammad Jassem Fakhro, Deputy Chief of the Military Attaché, as well as Nasser al-Obaidli from the Military Attaché. In his speech on this glorious occasion, Talal Farhan al-Anzi said Qatar has made great achievements in all fields, including political, economic, social and sports, the most recent of which was the winning of hosting the 2030 Asian Games, thanks to the policy and the vision of the wise leadership, and the solidarity and unity of the people with their wise leadership. He referred to the established relations between Qatar and Sudan, reaffirming Qatar's full support for Sudan at this historical stage, stressing the firm position of Qatar in support of the unity, stability and sovereignty of Sudan.
Mali
In Bamako, ambassador of Qatar to Mali Ahmed bin Abdulrahman al-Sunaidi held a reception on the occasion of National Day.
The reception ceremony was limited due to the circumstances of the Coronavirus pandemic, as it was attended by Director of the Asia and Oceania Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Mali Ambassador Mahmoud Arabi, representing the government, and the ambassador of Morocco, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Bamako, representing the ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Mali, in addition to a number of diplomats and community personalities.
Tunisia
In Tunis, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. The ceremony was attended by members of the diplomatic mission and employees. In a speech on this occasion, ambassador of Qatar to Tunisia Saad bin Nasser al-Humaidi affirmed that only a small ceremony was held at the embassy in compliance with the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19). He stressed that the development of bilateral ties with Tunisia further is a goal that will benefit the peoples of the two countries.
Mexico
In Mexico, the embassy of Qatar celebrated the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Mexico Mohamed bin Jassim al-Kuwari delivered a speech virtually during which he addressed the Mexican people and informed them of the significance of the day to Qataris. He highlighted Qatar's prominent position regionally and internationally, and discussed the country's initiatives in many areas related to combating terrorism, eradicating poverty and maintaining peace. HE al-Kuwari stressed the importance of bilateral relations between Qatar and Mexico in several areas, including investments and trade exchange. He also highlighted the sense of solidarity between the Qatari people and Mexico in terms of efforts to contain the coronavirus pandemic.
Algeria
In Algeria, the embassy of Qatar celebrated, virtually, the occasion of National Day. The embassy issued an introductory article on Qatar in Arabic and French, and provided movie links to government and official agencies in Algeria, diplomatic missions and international organisations accredited by the state, and the media.
India
In New Delhi, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. The ceremony was attended by the Minister of State for External Affairs of India. The embassy prepared a special video for this occasion, which included the participants and the words of ambassador of Qatar to India Mohamed bin Khater al-Khater, and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of India.
Chad
In N'Djamena, the embassy of Qatar celebrated, virtually, the occasion of National Day. The ceremony was attended by a delegation from the Chadian government headed by Director of the Arab Nation Administration Office at the Chadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Salah El-Din Hassan, and a number of community figures. Acting Charge d'Affairs at the embassy of Qatar to Chad Abdul Sattar Saleh al-Ansari affirmed that this is a precious national occasion for the Qatari people in which they renew their expression of love and loyalty to the wise leadership. He said that Qatar has continued its development path in all fields and has never stopped its good and internationally trusted endeavours to work to find solutions to international disputes, as is the case in the Afghan issue, noting that Qatar has established a large number of agricultural, industrial and livestock projects. The envoy added that Qatar has been able to accomplish a lot of its major projects planned in advance, along with the projects and infrastructure of the World Cup in Qatar, two years before its date, and it recorded a remarkable development in its economic performance, which made it the most attractive destination for foreign investment. He referred to the medical aid provided by Qatar to more than 78 countries since the outbreak of the pandemic, with more than $90mn, including aid to Chad.
North Macedonia
In Skopje, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day, by preparing an electronic newsletter in English to mark the occasion.
Pakistan
The Consulate General of Qatar in Karachi, Pakistan, held a ceremony on the occasion of National Day. In view of the circumstances of coronavirus (Covid-19), precautionary measures were taken at the ceremony to avoid gatherings as participation was limited to Consul General of Qatar in Karachi Meshaal bin Mohamed al-Ansari, members of the diplomatic mission, and local staff and administrators at the consulate.
Heads of the diplomatic, consular and representative missions abroad raised their highest greetings and blessings to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, and all the Qatari people on this occasion, wishing Qatar more progress and prosperity. The diplomatic celebrations in the capitals and cities of the world witnessed the participation of high-level officials, which reflected Qatar's distinguished relations with the countries of the world.
United States
In New York, the permanent delegation of Qatar to the United Nations held a virtual celebration on the occasion of the National Day, with the participation of President of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly Volkan Bozkr, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohamed, as well as ambassadors accredited to the United Nations and officials of the United Nations Secretariat.
In her opening statement during the ceremony, HE the permanent representative of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, affirmed that the National Day is an opportunity to reflect on the past and future of Qatar, and Ambassador Sheikha Alya reviewed the achievements made by Qatar, expressing her pride in the accomplishments.
She emphasised that Qatar seeks to create a balance between economic and environmental development goals. In the field of human rights, Ambassador Sheikha Alya referred to the declaration issued by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, at the opening of the 49th regular session of the Shura Council, to hold elections next October, in accordance with the constitution of Qatar and to ensure the practice of the constitutional right for all citizens.
She expressed her pride that Qatar is one of the most effective countries to play the role of mediation and its commitment to achieving comprehensive peace and stability through dialogue, referring to the peace conference hosted by Doha for the Afghan parties. With regard to confronting the Coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19), she stated that Qatar has given priority to international cooperation in confronting and addressing the pandemic, stressing that it will continue its efforts in supporting international efforts to spread and distribute vaccines in a fair way to countries in need.
For his part, President of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly Volkan Bozkr extended his congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, and to the government and people of Qatar on the occasion of the celebration of the National Day, and praised the role that Qatar has played since its accession to the United Nations in 1971.
Bozkr added that Qatar is leading the way for education for all and is at the forefront of international efforts to provide humanitarian aid to the needy, and to encourage the principle of mediation and peace-keeping. He also praised the leadership role played by Qatar to help the least developed countries, noting that Doha is hosting the Least Developed Countries Conference in Jan 2022.
Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohamed, praised the efforts made by Qatar to combat the coronavirus pandemic at the national, regional and global levels, and expressed her gratitude and deep appreciation for the generous assistance provided by Qatar to the various programmes and activities of the United Nations, and said that Qatar is an important partner in the international community and a defender of multilateral action, expressing her aspiration to continue working with Qatar now and after the post-coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
The ceremony included displaying a video on the construction of stadiums by Qatar to host the World Cup 2022, where HE Sheikha Alya explained that these stadiums are a model of sustainability and advanced technology that provides a new global standard for the benefit of future generations.
Italy
In Rome, the Qatar embassy held a virtual ceremony on the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Italy Abdulaziz bin Ahmed al-Malki said in a speech on this occasion that everyone is celebrating within the framework of protection and safety measures, which is an approach that the world has not been used to, and everyone hopes to change it at the earliest possible opportunity. Qatar has supported the efforts of the international community and provided the necessary assistance to more than 70 countries and international organizations, stressing that Qatar will continue its efforts to support the manufacture of the vaccine and provide it in a fair way to the most needy countries.
The ambassador stressed that Qatar, in this exceptional circumstance represented by the outbreak of the coronavirus, has paid close attention to human rights, especially workers' rights, the need to preserve the health and safety of all workers, regardless of their place and work conditions, and full attention to their economic and legal rights, and Qatar has adopted an integrated package of measures to preserve the health of citizens and residents and the country's economy. Financial incentives were allocated in the amount of QR75bn, including guarantees to banks of QR5bn within the salary support programme and at the level of health procedures, examination, treatment and healthcare were provided to all citizens and residents of Qatar free of charge.
The ambassador added, during the past two decades, Qatar has moved with strong determination towards building an open and tolerant society where people of different religious beliefs and cultures feel that they are at their home and for this purpose Qatar established a number of institutions that enhance interfaith dialogue and combat intolerance and religious extremism.
Ambassador al-Malki said that the bilateral relations between Qatar and Italy are excellent and distinctive relations at all levels, including political, economic and military, which depend on respect, mutual trust and common interests, stressing that they have reached the strategic level. He pointed out that the volume of trade exchange between the two countries has achieved high increases compared to what it used to be, due to mutual investments and bilateral investments through sovereign funds and others in various sectors.
Sweden
In Stockholm, the Qatar embassy celebrated the National Day. The ceremony was attended by Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of Sweden Robert Rydberg. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Qatar to Sweden Sheikha Moza bint Nasser al-Thani, and a non-resident ambassador of Qatar to Norway, affirmed that the National Day marks a turning point in the process of building a modern, prosperous and developed country as it is a great opportunity to express our pride in our past and present. The ambassador pointed to the pivotal and vital role played by Qatar on the regional and international arenas, providing help to the needy around the world, and its medical assistance to more than 70 countries to combat the coronavirus pandemic and the relief for people suffering from ongoing crises and conflicts around the world, as well as the crucial role in the peacemaking process and conflict resolution to make the Middle East a better place for stability and prosperity.
The ambassador said that the National Day is a dear opportunity to emphasise the historical and strategic ties between Qatar and Sweden and Norway, as our common goal is to achieve peace, stability and international prosperity. For his part, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Robert Rydberg extended his warmest congratulations and sincere congratulations to Qatar on the occasion of its National Day, and referred to the positive developments in bilateral relations, stressing Sweden's keenness to develop relations to new dimensions, praising the measures taken by Qatar regarding its hosting of the World Cup 2022, and the migrant worker issue.
Kenya
In Nairobi, the Qatar embassy celebrated National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Kenya Jabr bin Ali al-Dossari, stressed in a speech that Qatar is steadily moving towards growth, modernisation and regional and international leadership. At the local level, Qatar has achieved great developments, including the historic announcement of holding the first elections for the Shura Council in October of next year, and thus the country is moving towards strengthening established traditions of fair and rational governance linked to the people, and strengthens Qatar's National Vision 2030 aimed at completing the building of the state of institutions and the expansion of popular participation in decision-making.
He said that the State has continued the march of development in all fields, achieved self-sufficiency in the agricultural and industrial sectors, established many farms and factories, and established giant companies and projects, including the 2022 World Cup facilities. The envoy added: "On the regional and international level, Qatar has succeeded in strengthening its strategic relations with a large number of countries in the world and the region, expanding its network of cooperation and strategic partnerships, and strengthening solid diplomatic bridges with influential global powers, and its successes have emerged in mediation.
The success of mediation, dispute resolution and conflict resolution efforts has become linked to the name of Qatar, and its efforts to mediate a solution to the conflict in Darfur in Sudan, and between the Afghan government and the Taliban movement, are the latest and most prominent examples of the success of Qatari mediation."
The envoy stressed that the Qatari-Kenyan relations are characterised by durability and development in a number of diplomatic, political, military and economic fields, and stressed that diplomatic relations have witnessed development and prosperity to broader horizons of cooperation, adding that the two countries signed many agreements and memoranda of mutual understanding in the political fields, commercial, investment, legal, transport, aviation, employment, etc, and exchanged visits at the highest levels. He noted the exchange of Qatar and Kenya during the last period of support in regional and international forums.
Greece
In Athens, the Qatar embassy celebrated, via video communication technology, the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Greece Abdulaziz Ali al-Naama said that the celebration this year comes (remotely) in application of precautionary and preventive measures to preserve the health and safety of everyone. He added: "Within the framework of serious and continuous work to address the coronavirus pandemic, Qatar has worked to strengthen its medical sector, as it provided assistance to many countries and Qatar Airways continued to operate its flights to return thousands of travelers stranded outside their countries due to closures caused by the outbreak of the virus."
The envoy indicated that the principles of the foreign policy of Qatar are based on the foundations of peace, security, stability, cooperation and friendship among all countries. He noted the announcement of the Shura Council elections to be held in October of next year, and referred to the proclamation of Sept 9, 2020 of every year as an International Day to Protect Education from Attacks, based on the proposal of Her Highness Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, and this is in addition to all the initiatives of the Education Above All Foundation, pointing to Qatar hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup and affirming that it will be an exceptional edition in history.
The envoy added: "Since 2007, diplomatic ties have been born between Qatar and the Greek Republic, as we are witnessing a flourishing in bilateral relations between the two countries, and today we renew the bonds of cooperation with our common heritage, cultural exchange and communication and historical ties to ensure a better future for the two peoples". The ambassador expressed thanks and praise to the government and to the friendly Greek people, and to the deep-rooted and historic friendship between Qatar and Greece.
Singapore
In Singapore, the Qatar embassy celebrated, the occasion of the National Day, by sending an electronic note to the Singaporean government represented by the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and to all diplomatic, consular and representative missions accredited to Singapore, which included expressing the embassy's thanks and appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Ministry, and the missions for their permanent support by participating in official events of Qatar during the past years, and announcing that, given the current circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic, this year's celebration will be remotely, and the note also included a link to an introductory video on Qatar.
At the conclusion of the note, ambassador of Qatar to Singapore Saud bin Jassim al-Jufairi referred to the strong bilateral relations between Qatar and Singapore, expressing his wishes for more success, progress and prosperity for the relations between the two friendly countries. The envoy also received a number of congratulations electronically and through direct visual communication, where he expressed his thanks, gratitude and appreciation to the heads of mission, expressing his hope for improvement and development of the conditions related to the coronavirus pandemic, and to welcome them personally during the celebration of the National Day of Qatar next year.
Sri Lanka
In Colombo, the Qatar embassy held a virtual ceremony on the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Sri Lanka Jassim bin Jaber al-Sorour received congratulations from a number of ministers, members of Parliament, senior officials in the Sri Lankan government, heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Colombo. The Sri Lankan officials expressed their praise of the existing bilateral relations between the two countries in all fields, and praised the achievements and development witnessed by Qatar, expressing their sincere wishes for the government and people of Qatar further progress and prosperity.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
In Sarajevo, the Qatar embassy celebrated virtually the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Bosnia and Herzegovina Sultan bin Ali al-Khater said in a speech that the celebration of National Day this year comes amid all humanity facing the coronavirus pandemic. He stressed that Qatar has managed to control the spread of the pandemic. The envoy referred to the support of Qatar to the international community, and its provision of the necessary assistance to more than 70 countries and international organisations, in recognition of the importance of international cooperation in addressing the pandemic.
The envoy stressed that the relations of Qatar with Bosnia and Herzegovina are solid. It is based on friendship and brotherhood, and have been documented through the signing of many agreements and bilateral cooperation protocols, in addition to the exchange of visits between officials of the two countries at the highest levels. He referred to Qatar's political and humanitarian support for Bosnia and Herzegovina by providing assistance in times of crisis, the last of which is providing medical assistance to help it cope with the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
Romania
In Bucharest, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Romania Abdullah bin Nasser al-Humaidi affirmed that this occasion has profound connotations in the consciences and hearts of all citizens, as Qatar has become a civilisational beacon and a shining pioneering model in all fields of life because it puts the citizen in priority.
He said, "The policy of the State of Qatar and its projects in all fields, such as education, culture, health, sports, youth, and social care to raise the level of well-being of the citizen and resident on its lands, respect his rights and preserve his dignity, have been affirmed by the legislative structure represented in the permanent constitution of the country, where elections will be organised for the Shura Council next October which is an expression of its respect for the foundations of democracy and the freedom of the citizen and his rights, an embodiment of what our leadership believes in of the authentic social and moral values affirmed by Islamic law and the ancient traditions of the Qatari society."
He added: "Our country has recorded the highest rates of development on the list of Arab countries and ranked 27th in the world in the ranking of global peace indicators 2020 issued by the Institute for Economics and Peace in Australia, and according to the index of the most secure and socially peaceful countries. The report ranked Qatar first in the Arab world and 16 globally among 163 countries." He added: "This makes Qatar one of the 20 safest countries in the world, and Qatar topped the index of women's participation in the workforce by 58.3% according to the latest study issued by the Arab Monetary Fund. Qatar also ranked 31st globally among 186 countries included in the Economic Freedom Index to enhance the investment climate. "
He noted that Qatari diplomacy played a mediating role in resolving many disputes at the regional and international levels, which would contribute to strengthening peace and security. He stressed that peace, according to Qatari diplomacy, is not only extinguishing the fire of violence, but rather achieving justice, cooperation, political and economic integration, and rejection of injustice and exclusion.
On this occasion, he affirmed his pride in the 27th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with Romania, looking forward to further cooperation in various fields of common interest, foremost of which is the economic aspect, and praised the bilateral cooperation in combating the coronavirus pandemic, the exchange of experiences and information, and the medical assistance provided to Romania.
Sudan
In Khartoum, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. Due to the circumstances of the coronavirus (Covid-19), the celebration this year was limited to the diplomatic staff of the embassy represented by the charge d'affairs of Qatar to Sudan Talal Farhan al-Anzi, Brigadier General Abdullah bin Muhanna al-Raml al-Mannai, Military Attache, and Abdullah Matar al-Dossary a diplomat at the embassy, Abdullah Muhammad Abdullah al-Subaie, a diplomat at the embassy, Brigadier General Muhammad Jassem Fakhro, Deputy Chief of the Military Attaché, as well as Nasser al-Obaidli from the Military Attaché. In his speech on this glorious occasion, Talal Farhan al-Anzi said Qatar has made great achievements in all fields, including political, economic, social and sports, the most recent of which was the winning of hosting the 2030 Asian Games, thanks to the policy and the vision of the wise leadership, and the solidarity and unity of the people with their wise leadership. He referred to the established relations between Qatar and Sudan, reaffirming Qatar's full support for Sudan at this historical stage, stressing the firm position of Qatar in support of the unity, stability and sovereignty of Sudan.
Mali
In Bamako, ambassador of Qatar to Mali Ahmed bin Abdulrahman al-Sunaidi held a reception on the occasion of National Day.
The reception ceremony was limited due to the circumstances of the Coronavirus pandemic, as it was attended by Director of the Asia and Oceania Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Mali Ambassador Mahmoud Arabi, representing the government, and the ambassador of Morocco, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Bamako, representing the ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Mali, in addition to a number of diplomats and community personalities.
Tunisia
In Tunis, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. The ceremony was attended by members of the diplomatic mission and employees. In a speech on this occasion, ambassador of Qatar to Tunisia Saad bin Nasser al-Humaidi affirmed that only a small ceremony was held at the embassy in compliance with the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19). He stressed that the development of bilateral ties with Tunisia further is a goal that will benefit the peoples of the two countries.
Mexico
In Mexico, the embassy of Qatar celebrated the occasion of National Day. Ambassador of Qatar to Mexico Mohamed bin Jassim al-Kuwari delivered a speech virtually during which he addressed the Mexican people and informed them of the significance of the day to Qataris. He highlighted Qatar's prominent position regionally and internationally, and discussed the country's initiatives in many areas related to combating terrorism, eradicating poverty and maintaining peace. HE al-Kuwari stressed the importance of bilateral relations between Qatar and Mexico in several areas, including investments and trade exchange. He also highlighted the sense of solidarity between the Qatari people and Mexico in terms of efforts to contain the coronavirus pandemic.
Algeria
In Algeria, the embassy of Qatar celebrated, virtually, the occasion of National Day. The embassy issued an introductory article on Qatar in Arabic and French, and provided movie links to government and official agencies in Algeria, diplomatic missions and international organisations accredited by the state, and the media.
India
In New Delhi, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day. The ceremony was attended by the Minister of State for External Affairs of India. The embassy prepared a special video for this occasion, which included the participants and the words of ambassador of Qatar to India Mohamed bin Khater al-Khater, and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of India.
Chad
In N'Djamena, the embassy of Qatar celebrated, virtually, the occasion of National Day. The ceremony was attended by a delegation from the Chadian government headed by Director of the Arab Nation Administration Office at the Chadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Salah El-Din Hassan, and a number of community figures. Acting Charge d'Affairs at the embassy of Qatar to Chad Abdul Sattar Saleh al-Ansari affirmed that this is a precious national occasion for the Qatari people in which they renew their expression of love and loyalty to the wise leadership. He said that Qatar has continued its development path in all fields and has never stopped its good and internationally trusted endeavours to work to find solutions to international disputes, as is the case in the Afghan issue, noting that Qatar has established a large number of agricultural, industrial and livestock projects. The envoy added that Qatar has been able to accomplish a lot of its major projects planned in advance, along with the projects and infrastructure of the World Cup in Qatar, two years before its date, and it recorded a remarkable development in its economic performance, which made it the most attractive destination for foreign investment. He referred to the medical aid provided by Qatar to more than 78 countries since the outbreak of the pandemic, with more than $90mn, including aid to Chad.
North Macedonia
In Skopje, the embassy of Qatar celebrated National Day, by preparing an electronic newsletter in English to mark the occasion.
Pakistan
The Consulate General of Qatar in Karachi, Pakistan, held a ceremony on the occasion of National Day. In view of the circumstances of coronavirus (Covid-19), precautionary measures were taken at the ceremony to avoid gatherings as participation was limited to Consul General of Qatar in Karachi Meshaal bin Mohamed al-Ansari, members of the diplomatic mission, and local staff and administrators at the consulate.
