Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis paid his first official visit to Qatar, which indicates the special interest of both sides in further strengthening bilateral relations, especially in today’s critical juncture of regional instability and energy crisis.
During the meeting of Kyriakos Mitsotakis with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the common will to deepen cooperation in the field of energy, as well as in the fields of tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, culture, sports and sciences was demonstrated.
The two leaders discussed current regional developments. The Prime Minister underlined the need for a climate of stability to prevail in the wider region and to avoid actions that undermine peace, amid the turmoil caused by the war in Ukraine. He also recognized Qatar’s role in the Gulf, a region which is crucial for Greek interests, after the adoption of the Al-Ula Declaration. He also referred to the important role of Doha and of the Emir personally in managing crises, such as in Chad, Palestine and Afghanistan.
During the meeting, particular emphasis was given on the energy sector and the potential to reinforce and systematize cooperation in the energy sector, given Qatar’s leading position in natural gas production and the government’s strategy for the diversification of energy sources and the country’s energy security.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis pointed out that Greece – due to its strategic position in the area and its infrastructure – can become the bridge between Qatar and Europe, an entry point of energy for the European market, both through its station in Revythousa and through Alexandroupolis.
The Prime Minister stressed that Greece is a reliable partner and a pillar of stability in the region. He informed the Emir of Qatar on Greece’s exit from the enhanced surveillance framework, on August 20th, which opens a new chapter, as well as on the investment opportunities offered by Greece.
The Prime Minister congratulated the Emir of Qatar on the country hosting the organization of the FIFA World Cup (starting on 20/11) and wished him every success. The Prime Minister accepted the Emir’s invitation to visit Qatar again during the World Cup.
