Future bright for Qatar-German relations: Envoy

The future of bilateral relations between Qatar and Germany is bright, said German Ambassador to Qatar, Hans-Udo Muzel. 

Speaking at an event, organised to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, the ambassador praised Qatar for implementing ‘sweeping and impressive reforms’ in its labour market.

The Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs, H E Yousuf Mohamed Al Othman Fakhroo; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi; Qatar Chamber Chairman, Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, several dignitaries and leading names in Qatar’s business community attended the event which was held at St. Regis Hotel on Wednesday.   

“The future looks bright for the German-Qatar economic and commercial relationship, which continues to flourish, despite current regional and international challenges,” said Hans-Udo Muzel. 

The ambassador said that Qatar has become a role model for the region by implementing reforms in labour market.

“Qatar has started implementing sweeping and impressive reforms to its labour market, taking a momentous step forward in improving the work and living conditions of migrant workers,” said the ambassador. 

“Germany highly welcomes these reforms and recognises the commitment of the government and business organisations in Qatar to progressively transforming its labour market, becoming a role model for the whole region,” he added. 

The ambassador said that Germany is in favour of a diplomatic solution for the blockade imposed on Qatar. 

“Closed borders and erecting walls harm all parties. Most of all, it impacts the ordinary citizen, as this has certainly be the case in the Gulf. This is why Germany calls for a diplomatic solution of this conflict, which has lasted for far too long,” said Hans-Udo Muzel. “The people of this great and vibrant region have the power to overcome the current challenges and divisions,” he added.

Germany is the largest economy in the European Union and the fourth largest in the world. Qatar is an important trade, logistics and investment hub for the Gulf region and beyond, said the ambassador.

He said that German companies have become trusted partners and household names. They have greatly contributed to the impressive development of our host country Qatar. 

“They reaffirm their commitment to collaborating with Qatar in achieving its National Vision 2030 development plans and projects. In this context, they are dedicated to contributing in the creation of a world-class infrastructure for hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022,” said the ambassador. 

There are over 100 German companies operating in Qatar which are playing positive role in countries economic growth.

“Looking beyond the current challenges to the future, I should like to suggest joining forces to prepare Qatar’s public and private sector for the opportunities of the digital economy. This will contribute to attract more foreign companies and investment to Qatar,” said the ambassador.

As seen on Peninsula Qatar  Image Credits Peninsula Qatar