Strasbourg: The Shura Council has affirmed Qatar's dedication to being an active partner with Europe on regional and international matters, reflecting its vision of partnership and cooperation with the international community.
According to Qatar News Agency, during the Sixth Qatari-European Parliamentary Meeting, the Shura Council highlighted Qatar's interest in principles of international peace, security, justice, equality, and respect for human rights. The meeting, co-chaired by HE Yousef bin Ali Al Khater and HE Reinhold Lopatka, was held at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France.
In his opening remarks, HE Yousef bin Ali Al Khater praised shared interests between Qatar and Europe and their ongoing dialogue, which has strengthened these interests. He expressed hope that the sixth meeting would enhance Qatari-European parliamentary cooperation, benefiting the peoples of both sides and promoting global peace and stability.
HE Al Khater discussed the growth of economic relations between Qatar and the EU, with the EU projected to become Qatar's second-largest trading partner by 2025. He mentioned ongoing negotiations for a strategic partnership agreement to enhance trade and investment cooperation.
He emphasized Qatar's commitment to international peace and security, justice, equality, and human rights, noting Qatar's role in global mediation and conflict resolution. HE Al Khater also highlighted Qatar's humanitarian contributions, projecting it to be a top five donor of humanitarian aid by 2025.
Social justice and the empowerment of women and girls are fundamental to Qatar National Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals, and Qatar's constitution. HE Al Khater noted Qatar's focus on economic and social empowerment of women and family support.
The meeting reviewed legislative cooperation and strategic ties between Qatar and the EU, with discussions on Gaza's humanitarian situation. Members examined parliamentary relations, joint cooperation, and legislative expertise exchange, alongside strategic partnership prospects.
Qatar's Shura Council delegation advocated for exempting Qatari citizens from Schengen visa requirements, reflecting deep friendship and strategic partnership. Participants emphasized advancing parliamentary dialogue on global challenges, including climate change, energy security, and counter-terrorism.
Prominent discussions included the Israeli occupation genocide in Gaza, with the Shura Council delegation stressing civilian protection, ceasefire adherence, and humanitarian aid delivery. They reiterated that a two-state solution remains the only path to peace and proposed a joint parliamentary committee for Gaza's humanitarian situation.
During its visit, the delegation engaged with HE Reinhold Lopatka and HE Lynn Boylan, addressing cooperation enhancement and Gaza's humanitarian conditions. The delegation praised efforts to support Palestinian people and highlighted Qatar's role in Gaza as mediator and donor.