18 hours Ago By Qatar Tribune
Qatar tribune Ashraf Siddiqui Doha The Ambassador of Belgium to Qatar, HE William Asselborn, recently highlighted the exceptional relationship between Belgium and Qatar, emphasizing the strong political dialogue that continues to define the bilateral ties. The envoy’s admiration for the growing partnership was evident in his remarks at a grand reception held on the lawns of the Grand Sheraton Hotel in Doha. Ambassador Asselborn specifically pointed to the significant visits of Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo to Doha in March 2024 and the subsequent meeting with the Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Brussels, which further solidified the strong political and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The ambassador also commended Qatar’s continuous and constructive role in facilitating negotiations, particularly those aimed at securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza, underscoring Qatar’s commitment to peace and humanitarian values. “This gesture further reflects the mutual respect and collaborative spirit that define the relationship between Belgium and Qatar,” the envoy said. At the reception, attended by key figures including Qatar’s Minister of Labour HE Dr Ali bin Saeed bin Samikh Al Marri; HE Ambassador Ibrahim Yousif Fakhro, Director of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; European Union Ambassador HE Cristian Tudor; members of the Diplomatic Corp, business leaders, guests, and members of the Belgian expatriate community.
HE Asselborn celebrated not only the political and humanitarian cooperation but also the growing economic ties between the two countries. The bilateral trade between Belgium and Qatar, he pointed out, had nearly doubled, reaching an impressive 3.2billion Euros between 2021 and 2023.
“Belgium’s vital role in Europe’s energy security, particularly through its LNG terminal in Zeebrugge, further underscores the depth of their economic partnership.” The ambassador also highlighted Belgium’s commitment to international law and humanitarian efforts, particularly advocating a ceasefire in Gaza and reaffirming Belgium’s stance on the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His support for Lebanon’s stability and territorial integrity also demonstrates Belgium’s dedication to global peace and security.
Furthermore, the ambassador reflected on Belgium’s impressive economic resilience, citing a 1.5% GDP growth in 2023 despite global challenges, which outpaced the Eurozone average. “This growth, paired with Belgium’s strategic position as a global trade hub, reinforces the country’s ongoing commitment to innovation and economic development,” he noted.
In his closing remarks, HE Asselborn expressed pride in Belgium’s leadership during its presidency of the European Union in 2024, particularly its support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing crisis, further solidifying Belgium’s role as a defender of European values and unity. Copy 21/11/2024 10.
