(MENAFN- The Peninsula)
QNA
Doha, Qatar: Ambassador of Netherlands to Qatar H E Ferdinand Lahnstein has said that the visit of Amir H H sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to the Netherlands is a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries.
He said that the visit highlights the highest level of engagement, reflecting the strong and growing ties between Qatar and the Netherlands.
The Ambassador added that the visit underscores the two countries' shared commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership, enhancing Political and economic collaboration, and promoting regional and global stability.
In his remarks to QNA, Lahnstein said that the Netherlands and Qatar have developed strong and diverse relations since they began diplomatic ties in 1972. The Dutch embassy opened in Doha in 2005, initially focusing on trade and investment. However, with fast-changing global dynamics, especially in the Gulf, the relationship evolved into a strategic partnership. This partnership emphasizes safety, security, and regional stability.
He pointed out that the two countries also have distinguished economic and trade relations. The Ambassador said that Dutch exports to Qatar have grown significantly after the COVID-19 pandemic, rising from €560m in 2020 to €825m in 2022. These exports mainly include fruit and vegetables, office equipment, data processing and telecom equipment, and dairy products.
Lahnstein added that the Netherlands imports mostly mineral fuels, metals, chemical products, and telecom equipment from Qatar. These imports have surged from €223m in 2020 to €1.4bn in 2022, largely due to increased LNG deliveries to the Netherlands since the war in Ukraine began.
He noted that the Netherlands stands out as a digital economy leader, boasting substantial infrastructure such as major internet nodes and data centers.
The Netherlands envisions enhanced collaboration in trade, investment, innovation, and R&D, with a particular focus on cybersecurity and protecting digital infrastructure.
He said that the Qatari investments in the Netherlands total around €7.4bn, involving state companies, private firms, and individuals. Notable investments include Q Terminals Group's majority stake in the Kramer Group and their sponsorship of Feyenoord Football Club. Other Qatari-owned assets include the Amstel Hotel, InsingerGilissen bank, Nedair Freight, and a horse-trading company.
He said that foreign investors in the Netherlands receive incentives and support at national and regional levels through the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA). NFIA aids companies worldwide in establishing or expanding operations in the Netherlands.
Lahnstein said that the Netherlands values Qatar's role as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
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