Italy’s Deputy Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, H E Valentino Valentini, recently emphasized the importance of strengthening economic and cultural ties between Italy and Qatar. During an Italian exhibition opening at Msheireb Downtown Doha, Valentini highlighted the multifaceted relationship between the two countries. He mentioned the significance of not only economic relationships but also cultural ties and cooperation in various fields, including education. The exhibition titled “CONNECT-IT. Visions to connect the world,” produced by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with ANCE, showcased the success of Italian art, style, and Made in Italy in Qatar.
Valentini pointed out the tangible outcomes of cooperation between Italy and Qatar, highlighting major public works in Doha as examples of successful joint projects. He praised Qatar’s contribution to realizing these projects and emphasized a vision of collaboration and friendship that extends globally. At the recent Qatar Economic Forum, Valentini engaged in discussions on bilateral collaboration. He participated in a roundtable with Italian and Qatari companies, as well as in a Breakout Session titled “The New Era of Manufacturing,” focusing on manufacturing growth and the future of manufacturing jobs amidst technological advancements.
Italy ranks as Qatar’s eighth largest trading partner, with strong investment ties between the two nations. The political cooperation between Italy and Qatar has flourished in recent years, marked by high-level visits and strategic dialogues. The state visit of President of Italy H E Sergio Mattarella to Doha in January 2020 and the subsequent visit of the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Rome in February 2023 highlight the growing importance of bilateral relations. Meetings between the Ministers of Foreign Affairs have led to significant agreements, including the Memorandum of Understanding on Strategic Dialogue signed in December 2020.
In conclusion, the relationship between Italy and Qatar continues to strengthen, with a focus on enhancing economic and cultural ties. The success of joint projects in Doha and the collaborative efforts in various fields demonstrate the depth of the friendship and cooperation between the two nations. With Italy being Qatar’s eighth largest trading partner and significant investment ties between the two countries, the future looks promising for further growth and collaboration. The strategic dialogues and agreements signed in recent years reflect a commitment to deepening the ties between Italy and Qatar, paving the way for a prosperous and mutually beneficial relationship in the years to come.