Doha – Italy has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its Qatar-Italy relations, with a focus on expanding collaboration in key sectors like investment, innovation, and advanced technologies. Italian Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Paolo Toschi, highlighted the growing partnership in a statement released on the occasion of Qatar National Day. This continued collaboration builds on decades of diplomatic ties between the two nations, marked by increasing trade and shared strategic interests.
The Ambassador’s remarks, issued December 18, 2023, emphasize Italy’s support for Qatar’s ambitious national vision, particularly its goals concerning sustainable growth and broader global engagement. He noted the significant role Italian companies play in Qatar’s development, contributing expertise in areas ranging from energy and defense to infrastructure and manufacturing. These statements signal a continuation of a positive trajectory in bilateral ties.
Growing Qatar-Italy Economic Ties
The economic relationship between Qatar and Italy has seen substantial growth in recent years. According to data from the Italian Trade Agency, bilateral trade volume exceeded $3.5 billion in 2022, with Italian exports to Qatar primarily consisting of machinery, fashion, and design products. Simultaneously, Qatar’s investments in Italy have increased, especially in sectors like real estate, hospitality, and energy.
Italian firms have been actively involved in major infrastructure projects in Qatar, including those associated with the FIFA World Cup 2022. This involvement extends beyond construction to include the provision of technologies and services for sustainable urban development, aligning with Qatar’s long-term planning goals. Additionally, collaboration in the energy sector remains central, given Italy’s reliance on imported natural gas and Qatar’s position as a leading LNG exporter.
Upcoming Events to Facilitate Cooperation
Several major international events scheduled for Qatar in 2024 and 2026 are expected to further catalyze Qatar-Italy relations. These include the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference (DIMDEX), the Web Summit Qatar, and the prestigious LNG2026 conference.
DIMDEX, a prominent defense and security exhibition, provides a platform for Italian defense companies to showcase their capabilities and forge partnerships with Qatari counterparts. The Web Summit Qatar, a global technology event, offers opportunities for collaboration in the digital economy and innovation. Most significantly, LNG2026 will draw international attention to Qatar’s leadership in the liquified natural gas industry, likely enhancing Italian interest and investment.
Beyond these specific events, the ambassador highlighted Italy’s commitment to working closely with Qatar on regional and global stability initiatives. The two countries share positions on several geopolitical issues, including the importance of a rules-based international order and the need for peaceful conflict resolution. This camaraderie extends to counter-terrorism efforts and humanitarian aid.
The Italian ambassador’s statement arrives amidst a broader effort by Qatar to diversify its economy and strengthen its international partnerships. This diversification strategy, outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030, prioritizes investments in non-hydrocarbon sectors, such as tourism, education, and healthcare. Italy, with its advanced industrial base and technological expertise, is viewed as a key partner in achieving these objectives. There is a growing interest in foreign direct investment in Qatar.
Looking ahead, both countries are expected to continue exploring opportunities for deeper collaboration in areas like renewable energy and sustainable technologies. While geopolitical factors and fluctuations in global energy markets may introduce uncertainties, the commitment to cultivating a strong Qatar-Italy relations appears firm. Further details on specific joint projects are anticipated in the coming months, with potential announcements linked to the upcoming international conferences scheduled in Qatar.
The development of a bilateral investment treaty, currently under discussion, represents a key next step that could provide a more formalized framework for economic cooperation. The timeline for ratification of such a treaty remains unclear, and will likely depend on ongoing negotiations and domestic approvals within both nations. Industry analysts will closely monitor these developments for indicators of future investment flows and sector-specific growth.
Increased dialogue regarding cultural exchange programs and educational opportunities is also expected, aiming to foster closer people-to-people connections between Italy and Qatar, solidifying their partnership for the future. Tourism numbers between the two countries are expected to grow.
