Sun. Mitsotakis: Greece can be a bridge between Qatar and Europe

The issue of energy was dominant during Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' first official visit to Qatar today. A visit which, according to government sources, is indicative of the special interest of the two sides in further strengthening bilateral relations, especially in the current critical juncture of regional instability and energy crisis.

During the meeting between Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the common will to deepen cooperation in the energy sector, as well as in the fields of tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, culture, sports and sciences was noted.

The two leaders discussed current regional developments. The Prime Minister underlined the need for a climate of stability in the region and the need to avoid actions to undermine peace in the midst of the turmoil caused by the war in Ukraine. He also acknowledged Qatar's role in the Gulf region, which is critical for Greek interests, following the adoption of the Al-Ula Declaration, and referred to the important role of Doha and the Emir personally in managing crises such as in Chad, Palestine and Afghanistan.

During the meeting, particular emphasis was placed on the energy sector and the possibilities of strengthening and systematizing cooperation in the energy sector, given Qatar's leading position in natural gas production and the government's strategy for the diversification of energy sources and the country's energy security.

Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis stressed, due to its strategic position in the region and its infrastructure, can be a bridge between Qatar and Europe, a gateway to the European market, both through the Revithoussa station and Alexandroupolis.

The Prime Minister noted that Greece is a reliable partner, a pillar of stability in the region. He briefed the Emir of Qatar on Greece's exit from the Enhanced Surveillance Regime on 20 August, which opens a new chapter, as well as on the investment opportunities offered by Greece.

Also, Kir. Mitsotakis congratulated the Emir of Qatar on Qatar's assumption of the FIFA World Cup (starting on 20/11) and wished him success. The Prime Minister accepted the Emir's invitation to visit Qatar again during the World Cup.