Qatar and Austria aim to further enhance the existing bilateral relations, especially in the field of economic cooperation.
Both countries have agreed to further promote mutual investments in various fields including technology and renewable energy.
This was disclosed during a joint press conference by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria H E Michael Linhart held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs yesterday.
“I agreed with His Excellency that we will work together to promote mutual investments between the two countries in various sectors, especially the technology and renewable energy sector, and there will be an exchange of visits to discuss opportunities between the two countries,” said H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.
“We also discussed developments on the international scene, including those related to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, the Iran nuclear agreement, and the latest developments in Afghanistan.
The Deputy PM said the meeting also discussed political, security, and economic situation in Afghanistan. “Qatar understands international concerns about Afghanistan, and we will work together with all friendly countries to enhance security and stability in Afghanistan and try to preserve the gains of Afghan people,” said H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.
“Qatar appreciates the role of Austria in achieving international security and stability, and we look forward to working with them and continuing consultations with them in all different fields,” he added. The Deputy Prime Minister called on the international community to engage with Afghanistan and not abandon it.
“Since we have agreed to help Afghanistan and alleviate the difficulties of humanitarian situation there, humanitarian aid should not be politicised and not be linked to any obligation for which the government is responsible.
We cannot punish the people of Afghanistan because of presence of certain forces in power,” he said.
To a question about recognition of the Taliban government, Sheikh Mohammed said Qatar’s priority is to engage with Afghanistan, rather than the recognition of the Taliban’s government.
The Austrian top diplomat described the relations between Qatar and Austria as ‘excellent’ saying the aim of his visit was to further enhance and strengthen bilateral ties.
“The State of Qatar is a very important economic partner, and we are keen to strengthen our partnerships and economic relations, especially at this stage in which we are trying to overcome the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and restore momentum to the Austrian economy,” said Michael Linhart.
He said a number of Austrian companies in Qatar are contribute to infrastructure projects, especially those related to FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Michael Linhart lauded Qatar’s role on Afghan issue and noted that the European Union had established clear benchmarks in engaging with the Taliban. “But the developments are heading in the wrong direction,” he said.
However, he stressed the need to assist Afghan people, and ensure human rights, women’s rights, and prevent Afghanistan from becoming a safe haven for terrorism. “Afghanistan cannot become a security black hole,” he said.
He noted that Austria has provided humanitarian aid worth ¤20m and will continue the support in partnership with friends in the European Union.
