QNA
Helsinki
Ambassador of Qatar to Finland HE Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Jaber emphasised the significance of the Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s commitment to fostering cooperation and enhancing communication with friendly countries. He noted that the international community warmly welcomes these efforts, particularly highlighting the importance of HH the Amir’s first visit to Helsinki, leading a high-level delegation to strengthen governmental and public ties between Qatar and Finland.
In his remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Al Jaber described the relationship between Qatar and Finland as characterised by strong cooperation and coordination, with both countries sharing common views on various foreign policy issues. He underscored the potential for increased trade and the exchange of expertise in multiple fields between the two countries.
The Ambassador pointed out that the visit aims to boost cooperation in several areas, including political coordination at bilateral and multilateral levels, scientific research, innovation, and exploring investment opportunities. He highlighted that both Qatar and Finland emphasise mediation, peaceful conflict resolution, and adherence to international law as core aspects of their foreign policies.
Al Jaber noted the significance of the relationship between Qatar and Finland, especially as the two countries celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the first anniversary of the opening of the Qatari Embassy in Helsinki. He emphasised that agreements and memoranda of understanding are vital frameworks for facilitating joint cooperation, exchanging expertise, and removing obstacles for private sector investments in areas such as innovation, education, scientific research, sustainability solutions, and tourism.
In 2023, the trade volume between Qatar and Finland reached $110 million, with various Finnish companies actively operating in Qatar, particularly in the fields of education and tourism services. Al Jaber sees significant potential for increasing mutual investments, citing Qatar’s advanced infrastructure, the supportive environment provided by the Qatar Free Zones Authority, and the strong and stable financial and banking system as key incentives for foreign investments.
He also pointed out that Finland offers numerous investment opportunities, particularly in advanced industries, logistics solutions, and various technologies, including communications, health, and sustainability.
The ambassador highlighted the alignment of the foreign policies of Qatar and Finland, both of which emphasize preventive diplomacy, mediation, and peaceful conflict resolution.
Al Jaber concluded by noting Finland’s appreciation and support for Qatar’s mediation efforts, praising Qatar’s role as an honest broker in international disputes.
