HE Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Qatar Lothar Freischlader described the relations between the State of Qatar and Germany as excellent, adding that the excellent economic ties in the fields of trade and investments play an ever-stronger role more than anytime.
In remarks to Qatar News Agency on the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Germany, His Excellency added that Qatar for Germany is the third largest trading partner in the Gulf region. He indicated that the bilateral trade volume accumulated to a total of 1.8 billion euros in 2022 (thereof 1.3 bn German exports). Qatar (by Qatar Investment Authority and by private investors) holds 17% in Volkswagen, 9% in RWE, 6% in Siemens, over 6% in Deutsche Bank, 9% in CureVac to name the most important. Altogether Qatar is invested (also in hotels, offices etc.) in Germany with 25 to 30 billion euros! Quite an impressive figure.
The German Ambassador outlined that the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani
to Germany came at the invitation of HE Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, adding that both leaders will discuss regional questions and crisis in the Middle East, along with global challenges, affirming the solid, reliable and fraternal relationship the two nations have been maintaining for the last fifty years (In 1973 Qatar and Germany forged official diplomatic relations).
Freischlader pointed out that the visit will discuss a wide range of bilateral, multilateral, economic and environmental challenges both countries face, adding that he personally thinks that the two nations would widen their bilateral activities to cultural exchange, research and scientific cooperation between universities and research institutions. He said the relationships between Qatar and Germany have been rapidly evolving during the past years by virtue of the reciprocal visits and bilateral consultations, including the visit of HE Federal Minister for Economy and Climate Action, Robert Habeck, who visited Doha in March
2022, while the visit of HH the Amir to Berlin came in May 2022, where they signed a strategic partnership in energy between the two nations.
He added that only four months later, in September 2022 the Federal Chancellor paid a visit to Doha (Subsequently, an agreement with ConocoPhilips on delivery of Qatari gas was signed in November 2022). Most recently, in May 2023, he said, Germanys foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock came to Doha, where Qatar and Germany agreed on an annual strategic dialogue which would also be on the agenda during His Highness’s visit to Berlin, alongside members of the Qatari government.
HE Lothar Freischlader noted that Qatar plays an important and useful role in mediation efforts between some countries, recalling that Germany will never forget Qatars decisive and humanitarian role during the evacuation of German and European nationals from Afghanistan in August 2021 (and afterwards), adding that he is grateful for this support and appreciates Qatars hospitality.
Thereafter, he s
aid, Qatar proved its talent in organizing other important and large events like the International Horticultural Expo 2023, the Geneva International Motor Show, and the Formula 1 just to name a few.
Source: Qatar News Agency