Al-Raya: Qatari-Spanish Strategic Dialogue

Doha: Al-Raya newspaper emphasized that the inaugural Qatari-Spanish Strategic Dialogue held in Madrid yesterday marks a new chapter in the growing Qatari-Spanish partnership, particularly as it crowns 53 years of outstanding diplomatic relations between the two countries. In its editorial today, the newspaper highlighted that the delegation was led by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and his meetings with HM King Felipe VI of Spain, HE Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Spain Dr. Pedro Sanchez , and HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of the Kingdom of Spain Jose Manuel Albares will propel bilateral relations to greater heights. The newspaper highlighted His Excellency's emphasis that the Qatari-Spanish partnership represents a successful model of bilateral and regional alliances. He pointed out the significant visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Madrid in 2022, which marked a histori c milestone in bilateral relations and resulted in elevating relations to the level of a strategic partnership and the commencement of the strategic dialogue. The newspaper said that both Doha and Madrid aim to build on the significant achievements of recent years. This was highlighted by the Prime Minister, noting that the joint efforts of both countries have resulted in a cumulative annual growth rate of approximately 22% in trade volume from 2020 to 2023. Additionally, Qatari investments in Spain have reached Euros 5.9 billion. Al-Raya affirmed that Qatar is a fundamental pillar in supporting the Spanish economy to achieve mutual benefits for both friendly nations. This was echoed by the Spanish Foreign Minister, who emphasized Qatar's crucial role in the Spanish economy, noting that since 2022, Qatar has been the second-largest Gulf country investing in Spain, with the Qatar Investment Authority being a cornerstone of these investments. The newspaper concluded by stating that the first Qatari-Spanish S trategic Dialogue is an opportunity to reaffirm the consistent Qatari-Spanish positions in international politics. In this regard, the Prime Minister renewed Qatar's appreciation for Spain's stance on the Palestinian issue, describing it as a courageous and honest ethical model in defending international law and its sovereignty in international relations. He stated that Spain's recognition of the State of Palestine is a very important step and a message to countries to avoid double standards, highlighting Qatar's high appreciation for Spain's historic positions on Arab issues, foremost of which is the Palestinian cause. Source: Qatar News Agency