The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Kazakhstan, HE Abdullah bin Hussein Al Jaber, has emphasized Qatar’s commitment to strengthening its relations with Asia, specifically through successful cooperation with influential organizations in the region. Qatar has been among the first Arab countries to be granted the status of “Dialogue Partner” in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). In September 2022, Qatar signed a memorandum of understanding to join the SCO as a Dialogue Partner, marking a significant step in enhancing its position in the region.
As a Dialogue Partner, Qatar has the right to attend open meetings of the Council of Foreign Ministers and heads of government of the SCO member states. This status is a preliminary step before full membership and requires respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states. Qatar is in the process of gaining full membership in the organization, as the SCO shares values with Qatar, such as maintaining peace, stability, and security in the region. The main goals of the SCO include building mutual trust, friendship, good neighborliness, and multifaceted cooperation to address challenges collectively and promote regional peace and stability.
The State of Qatar has played a significant role in mediation efforts to resolve conflicts worldwide, demonstrating a commitment to dialogue, mediation, and preventive diplomacy as part of its foreign policy. Qatar’s successful mediation efforts extend beyond the Arab region to Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The country’s belief in soft power, international law, and neutral policy has earned it a reputable international standing and credibility. Qatar’s mediation in conflicts, including the prisoner exchange agreement between the United States and Venezuela, has showcased its role as a key player in global mediation and goodwill efforts.
Qatar and Kazakhstan have had official relations since 1993, reaching a strategic partnership level that reflects the strong desire of both countries to enhance their friendly relations. There have been numerous agreements covering various sectors, including politics, trade, investments, security, healthcare, energy, and food. Joint investment projects in major economic sectors have been established, with increased visits by senior officials and business people from both countries. Cooperation agreements in trade, economic, investment, health, sports, military, cultural, and humanitarian fields have elevated the relationship between Qatar and Kazakhstan to a strategic partnership level.
There are promising opportunities for joint investment projects between Qatar and Kazakhstan, particularly in the gas sector, where Qatar is expected to invest in a gas processing plant and gas pipeline construction. Cooperation in financial and banking services, telecommunications, and agriculture also offer potential for mutual benefit. Trade volume between Qatar and Kazakhstan has shown significant progress over the past five years, with increased bilateral trade and imports of lamb meat and fiber optic cables. The level of bilateral relations between Qatar and Kazakhstan has reached a strategic partnership, with hopes for further increasing trade exchange in the future.
In conclusion, the Ambassador of Qatar to Kazakhstan affirmed the strong commitment and dedication of both countries to enhancing their relations through mutual cooperation and strategic partnerships. Qatar’s participation in influential organizations in Asia, its successful mediation efforts, and its growing cooperation with Kazakhstan demonstrate its commitment to regional stability and prosperity. The promising prospects for joint investment projects and increased trade exchange highlight the strong bond between Qatar and Kazakhstan, paving the way for continued cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships in the future.
