HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thanis visit to Germany provides a good opportunity for deepening bilateral relations between the two countries and exchanging views on the regional and international situation, said HE Director of Middle East and North Africa of the Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany Dr. Tobias Tunkel.

In exclusive remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Tunkel added: “We appreciate the visit of HH the Amir. It’s a very timely visit and it is not His Highness first visit as HH the Amir visits Germany on regular basis and there is a constant exchange of visits between the two countries.” The Director of Middle East and North Africa of the German Foreign Office further said that the State of Qatar plays a decisive role in regional situation, as it is deeply involved in mediation between various parties, “and I hope that the Amir’s visit will give the chance for more in-depth discussions on proposed solutions to ease tensions in the region.” He pointed out that there are many po
tentials for cooperation between the two countries, especially in the field of energy. “Qatar is one of the biggest gas producers in the world, and Germany is in the midst of its energy transition. That is a very good starting point for close cooperation in energy, not only in gas and liquefied natural gas but also in relation to hydrogen.” Noting that the two countries share the will and determination to work towards peace and stability in the region, he said: “We have a huge crisis in the region and we need to unite forces. The Arab countries, European countries, Germany, and Qatar can play a leading role here.” The Director of Middle East and North Africa of the German Foreign Office added that the various crises in the world have brought us closer to each other. During the Russian war against Ukraine, we took the decision to phase out energy supplies from Russia and we were looking around to alternative sources of supply. “Qatar is clearly an esteemed source of supply here for gas and energy deliveries an
d supplies.” He added: “The crisis in the Middle East have emphasized important issues for all of us and we need to work together towards stability. We appreciate that Qatar is determined to increase and enhance stability in the region and use its influence to achieve stability. Supporting regional stability in the Near and Middle East is also a goal of Germany.” While stressing that the State of Qatar plays a major role in the negotiations around ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage release, he said: “Its Qatar role extends to other places such as Afghanistan, where Germany has relied on Qatar’s good offices for a long time.” He stressed that the State of Qatars efforts of trying to mediate peaceful solutions for several of regional conflicts is very helpful and provides good opportunities for cooperation.

He continued by saying: “I think we do not share the same views in all fields of foreign policy. We have different views in some areas and I think that between partners it’s good practice and obvious, that we
address them openly. The Amirs visit will give an opportunity to also talk about these topics.” He further added: I mentioned the Gaza War. I think there are some differences the way we see it, but that’s normal among partners. The most important thing is that we agree on the direction where we want to move. And then both sides have to see what they can bring to the table. Qatar and Germany have their contacts. And if we agree on where we want to go, then we can join forces here. That’s how I see the cooperation.” Concluding his remrrks to QNA, the Director of Middle East and North Africa of the German Foreign Office affirmed that Qatar is a pillar of stability in a troubled region. There are various regional conflicts from Yemen, Gaza, Sudan and Syria that contribute to instability. He pointed out that the State of Qatar has a different model for development in the region, and Germany is looking forward to deepening cooperation with Qatar.

Source: Qatar News Agency