Doha, Qatar: The Embassy of Spain in Qatar commemorated Spain's National Day on October 12 with an elaborate reception that celebrated the strengthening bond between Spain and Qatar, while also emphasising their mutual values of peace, cultural exchange, and collaboration.

Present at the event were the Minister of Transport H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani; the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H E Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi; the Director of the Department of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H E Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro; Ambassador of Eritrea to Qatar and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps H E Ali Ibrahim Ahmed along with dignitaries, ambassadors, members of the Spanish community in Qatar, and other guests.

In his keynote address, the Spanish Ambassador to Qatar H E Álvaro Renedo Zalba extended his condolences to the families of the Amiri Diwan members who lost their lives in a car accident in Egypt, and expressed solidarity with the State of Qatar and its people.

He then reflected on Spain's global legacy, recalling how its historical role as a bridge between continents continues to shape its international outlook today.“Spain stands as a bridge nation, linking Europe with the Americas, Africa, and the Arab world - a role rooted in history and projected into the future,” he said.

Reaffirming Spain's strong belief in diplomacy and human rights, the Ambassador condemned the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He emphasised Spain's early recognition of Palestinian statehood and its continued support for humanitarian aid in the region through agencies such as UNRWA and Spain's cooperation agency.

He also praised Qatar's key role in mediating regional conflicts and facilitating the recent ceasefire in Gaza.“We greatly appreciate the mediation efforts by the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye,” he noted.“Spain continues to work so that this agreement becomes the first step towards a just and lasting peace based on the two-state solution.”

The evening celebrated Spain's cultural and artistic heritage with a captivating flamenco performance by renowned dancer Rocío Cuello, described by the Ambassador as“one of the deepest and most vibrant expressions of our living culture.”

Students from SEK International School Doha also presented artistic and poetic tributes to Spain, showcasing the growing cultural exchange between the two nations.
Guests were treated to a culinary experience featuring the creations of three award-winning Spanish chefs - Juan José San Bartolomé, Daniel Giraltel, and Silvia Ferré - champions of the world's most prestigious international paella competition.

The Ambassador also highlighted Spain's strong footprint in Qatari sports, noting that four of Qatar's last five national football team coaches have been Spanish. Spanish professionals also lead several local clubs and the Aspire Academy.“This reflects Spain's strong imprint in Qatari sports and our shared passion for excellence,” he said.

He commended the growing number of Spanish companies operating in Qatar, which contribute to vital sectors including energy, infrastructure, technology, and agriculture. The Ambassador also recalled the recent meeting between Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain in Seville, describing it as“a milestone in our bilateral partnership.”

Concluding his remarks, the Ambassador quoted Andalusian philosopher Ibn Arabi, emphasising that“hope and courage must be accompanied by vision, strategy, and unrelenting work.”

“As we say in Spain, 'orar y obrar' - pray and act,” he said.“Qatar has shown the courage to persevere, the hope to believe in peace, and the strategy to make it attainable. Together, we must continue working to turn peace into reality.”

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