‘Qatar-Japan ties mutually beneficial; 3rd strategic dialogue in Doha soon’

Doha, Qatar: The relations between Qatar and Japan have steadily evolved over the past 50 years and have grown to a strategic partnership encompassing...

Doha, Qatar: The relations between Qatar and Japan have steadily evolved over the past 50 years and have grown to a strategic partnership encompassing strong economic and cultural links. Ambassador Satoshi Maeda, who is completing his three-year tenure in Qatar, said the introduction of the visa waiver programme for Qatari nationals has significantly facilitated travel and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

In a recent media interaction to mark the end of his tenure, the ambassador said, “Japan highly appreciates and commends Qatar’s invaluable and tireless efforts as a mediator to achieve a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and secure the release of the hostages. Japan strongly supports these mediation efforts.”

On bilateral ties, the ambassador said the partnership has been mutually beneficial. “For over half a century, Japan and Qatar have cultivated a strong and enduring relationship, built on mutual trust and friendship. Since 1990, Japanese companies have contributed to the full-scale construction of LNG plants in Qatar, and vice-versa, Qatar’s reliable supply of LNG and oil has been instrumental in supporting Japan’s economic growth.

“In recent years, the bilateral relationship has expanded beyond energy to encompass a wide range of areas, including foreign policy, economic investment, security, education, and culture.”

The ambassador added, “The 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, celebrated throughout 2022, was a highlight of my time here. This historic occasion was marked by a series of cultural, economic, and diplomatic exchanges, including high-level visits by Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Japan and Prime Minister Kishida to Qatar.”