Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made his first official visit to Qatar, which testifies to the special interest of both sides in further strengthening bilateral relations, especially at the current critical moment of regional instability and energy crisis.

During his meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, a common will was expressed to deepen cooperation in the field of energy, as well as in the fields of tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, culture, sports and science.

The two leaders discussed current regional developments. The Prime Minister underlined the need to maintain an atmosphere of stability in the wider region and avoid actions that undermine the peace amid the unrest caused by the war in Ukraine. He also acknowledged the role of Qatar in the Gulf region, which is critical to Greek interests, after the adoption of the Al-Ula Declaration and mentioned the important role of Doha and the Emir personally in managing crises such as those in Chad, Palestine and Afghanistan. .

Emphasis on energy cooperation

During the meeting, special emphasis was placed on the energy sector and the possibilities for strengthening and systematizing cooperation in the energy sector, taking into account Qatar’s leading position in natural gas production and the government’s strategy to diversify energy sources and the country’s energy security.

Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis stressed, due to its strategic position in the region and its infrastructure can be a bridge between Qatar and Europe, a gateway for energy to enter the European market through both the Revitoussa station and Alexandroupolis.

The Prime Minister stressed that Greece is a reliable partner, a pillar of stability in the region. He briefed the Emir of Qatar about Greece’s withdrawal from the heightened surveillance regime on August 20, as well as about the investment opportunities offered by Greece.

Finally, Mr. Mitsotakis congratulated the Emir of Qatar on his country taking over the organization of the World Cup, which will begin on 20 November. Wishing him “good luck”, the prime minister accepted the Emir’s invitation to visit Qatar again during the World Cup.