The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Japan, Jaber bin Jarallah Al Marri, emphasized the strong relationship between the two countries, highlighting the cooperation, friendship, and shared interests that define their partnership. He expressed the State of Qatar’s commitment to its partnership with Japan and the importance it places on this relationship. The Ambassador delivered a speech at a reception hosted by the Japan-Qatar Friendship Association, where he was welcomed as the Honorary Chairman of the association, marking the beginning of his duties as Ambassador to Japan.
In his speech, the Ambassador mentioned the agreement signed between Qatar and Japan last year to elevate their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This agreement aims to strengthen cooperation in various fields including economics, culture, arts, sciences, defense, security, and academic exchanges. The Ambassador highlighted the significance of this agreement in fostering closer ties and collaboration between the two nations. The partnership between Qatar and Japan is seen as a model for other countries to emulate in terms of mutual respect, cooperation, and shared interests.
Deputy Director General of the Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Misako Takahashi, also commented on the long-standing friendship between Qatar and Japan, spanning over half a century. She expressed Japan’s pride in its partnership with Qatar, which has led to high-level dialogues and bilateral summit meetings between the two countries. Takahashi commended Qatar’s diplomatic efforts in the region and reiterated Japan’s commitment to working closely with Qatar to promote stability and peace in the region.
Chairman of the Japan-Qatar Friendship Association and Chubu Electric Power Co., Satoru Katsuno, emphasized the association’s role in fostering economic and cultural exchanges between Qatar and Japan, as well as enhancing mutual understanding. Katsuno expressed gratitude for Qatar’s support following the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, including the immediate supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and a generous donation of $100 million towards the reconstruction efforts in the affected areas. This assistance from Qatar significantly contributed to the recovery and rebuilding process in Japan, strengthening the bond between the two nations.
Overall, the relationship between Qatar and Japan is characterized by mutual respect, cooperation, and shared interests. The strategic partnership agreement signed between the two countries aims to enhance cooperation in various sectors and foster closer ties. Both Qatar and Japan are committed to working together to promote stability and peace in the region, and the Japan-Qatar Friendship Association plays a key role in promoting economic and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Qatar’s support following natural disasters in Japan has strengthened the bond between the two countries, reflecting the spirit of friendship and solidarity that defines their partnership.