HH The Amir Holds Official Talks Session with Norway’s Prime Minister

His Highness The Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and HE Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Norway Jonas Gahr Store held today a session of official talks at the Government Guest House in Oslo.

At the outset of the session, HE Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Norway welcomed HH The Amir and the accompanying delegation, praising the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries. He voiced his hope that HH The Amir’s visit to the Kingdom of Norway would contribute to consolidating and strengthening bilateral cooperation relations between the two countries across various fields.

In turn, HH The Amir thanked HE the Prime Minister of Norway for the warm reception accorded to His Highness and the accompanying delegation. His Highness stressed his aspiration to work with HE the Prime Minister of Norway to advance bilateral cooperation to broader horizons in light of the diplomatic relations that have tied the two countries for more than 50 years and to enhance bilateral partnerships between the two countries across various fields.

During the session, they discussed bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and ways to enhance and develop them, especially in the fields of investment, economy, energy, and international cooperation. They also discussed key regional and international developments, especially developments in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories.

The session was attended by HE Chief of the Amiri Diwan Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, HE Minister of State for Energy Affairs Eng. Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, HE Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al-Thani, HE Minister of State for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater, and a number of senior officials.

On Norway’s side, the session was attended by HE Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim, HE Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, HE Minister of Energy Terje Aasland, HE State Secretary for Defense Affairs Anne Marie Aanerud, HE State Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry Vegard Groslie Wennesland, and a number of senior officials.

Earlier, HH The Amir and HE the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Norway held a bilateral meeting, where they discussed a number of issues and topics of common interest.

Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Foreign Minister of Norway

Montreal, October 31 (QNA) – HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater met with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Norway Espen Barth Eide, on the margins of the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s Peace Formula in Montreal, Canada.

The meeting discussed aspects of bilateral cooperation and ways to enhance and promote them, the latest developments in the Gaza Strip, the occupied Palestinian territories and Lebanon, as well as topics of joint interest.

HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation expressed the State of Qatar’s thanks to the Kingdom of Norway for its leading position to stop the aggression on Gaza and support Palestinian rights.

(QNA)

HH the Amir Stresses Qatar’s Aspiration to Promote Distinguished Relations with Norway

Oslo, September 04 (QNA) – HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani stressed on Wednesday the State of Qatar’s aspiration to invest in its distinguished relationship with Norway, promoting it to the desired level that meets the common aspirations of both countries.

In a post on his official X account, HH the Amir said that he held fruitful talks in Norway on Wednesday with HM King Harald V and HE Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store.

HH the Amir said that they discussed prospects for cementing the economic and trade relations and cooperation in the diplomatic and development fields, in light of the good capabilities and potential of the two countries.

His Highness added that the two countries look forward to raising the relations to the desired level that meets the common aspirations of the two countries, now and in the future.

(QNA)

HH the Amir Attends Luncheon Banquet Hosted by Norway’s King and Queen

Oslo, September 04 (QNA) – HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani attended Wednesday the luncheon banquet hosted by His Majesty King Harald V of Norway and Her Majesty Queen Sonja at the Royal Palace in Oslo.

HRH Crown Prince Haakon Magnus of the Kingdom of Norway attended the luncheon banquet.

The banquet was also attended by Their Excellencies members of the official delegation accompanying HH the Amir. On Norway’s side, it was attended by a number of Their Excellencies the Ministers and senior officials.

(QNA)

Ambassador of Qatar to Norway: HH the Amir’s Visit Reflects Bilateral Keenness to Enhance Relations

Oslo, September 03 (QNA) – HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Kingdom of Norway (Non-resident) Nadya bint Ahmed Al Shaibi said that the visit HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Norway reflects the keenness of both countries to develop and enhance their bilateral relations, as well as their joint commitment to growth and progress in various fields.

In statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Her Excellency said that HH the Amir’s visit, which is in response to the invitation of HE the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Norway Jonas Gahr Store, aims to strengthen cooperation and partnership between the two countries and foster close ties between the two regions.

She pointed out that the visit will highlight the strategic and political dimensions central to international relations under Qatar National Vision 2030, which reflects Qatars continuous efforts to achieve its national objectives and contributes to establishing significant strategic partnerships.
Her Excellency stressed that the visit is a crucial step by Qatar in building fruitful and robust partnerships, particularly as it comes at a time of significant global transformations, which are part of a broader shift in the international system and its institutions amid ongoing wars and conflicts, especially in the Middle East and Europe.

HE Nadya bint Ahmed Al Shaibi noted the importance of this visit in the context of strengthening the long-standing friendship between the two countries, which has been built on mutual cooperation and respect for over 50 years. The golden jubilee of economic relations between the two countries was celebrated in Doha in 2019 with the presence of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon Magnus of Norway, she said, adding that in 2023, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations was also commemorated.

Her Excellency explained that HH the Amirs visit will include high-level meetings, the most significant of which will be with His Majesty King Harald V of Norway and an official discussion session with the Prime Minister of Norway, pointing out that these meetings are expected to produce new understandings that will support the future of bilateral relations and cooperation on the international stage.

The visit will also include the signing of several MOU and agreements covering various areas, including peace and reconciliation, innovation, defense, and commercial agreements between Qatari and Norwegian businesses, she said.

Her Excellency also said that the given Qatars presidency of the 44th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council, discussions during the visit will address cooperation between the Gulf countries and Northern European countries, adding that the first high-level ministerial meeting between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Nordic Council of Ministers will be held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September, highlighting the importance of cooperation between the two regions on both regional and international levels.

She further stated that Qatar and Norway share many important characteristics and roles on the international stage, particularly in peace and conflict resolution, as both countries have a strong record in mediation and this similarity reflects their shared interest in promoting regional and international stability through advanced diplomatic means and their roles as impartial mediators in various global conflicts.

HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Kingdom of Norway noted that the cooperation between Qatar and Norway serves as a distinguished model of international cooperation aimed at achieving sustainable development and highlights the importance of international partnership in addressing global developmental issues and supporting countries and communities facing various developmental challenges.

She also stressed that the cooperation between the two countries supports the implementation of humanitarian and developmental initiatives in line with United Nations commitments to achieve global development goals, confirming both countries’ commitment to improving the lives of the most needy communities.

Regarding trade between Qatar and Norway, Her Excellency mentioned that the two countries enjoy strong economic, commercial, and investment relations, with Norway being Qatars 35th largest trading partner as of 2023. The visit is expected to result in new partnerships given the mutual interest in enhancing investment, particularly since the Norwegian sovereign wealth fund (the largest in the world) invests in several sectors in Qatar.

She added that with significant reserves of oil and gas in both countries and their role as the largest exporters of liquefied natural gas in the world, there are great opportunities to enhance cooperation in this vital sector. Both Qatar and Norway believe that the future of their economic relations is full of opportunities, especially in areas such as renewable energy, green technology, and digital infrastructure, she said, noting that there is also significant potential for joint investments that can boost economic growth in both countries.

Her Excellency added that the two friendly countries play a pivotal role in enhancing energy security both regionally and internationally, given their rich natural resources and advanced expertise in energy. As major producers and exporters of liquefied natural gas, they possess a strategic position that allows them to sustainably and reliably meet global energy needs, and they have played a key role in the European energy security issue during the recent crisis.

Regarding investment opportunities and trade between Doha and Oslo, Qatar Ambassador to Norway noted that foreign direct investment flows from Norway to Qatar increased to $36.1 million in 2022, while the trade exchange for 2023 reached approximately $342.17 million. (QNA)

Norway Ambassador to QNA: HH the Amir’s Visit to Norway Highlights Longstanding and Strong Bilateral Relationship

Oslo, September 03 (QNA) – HE the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to the State of Qatar (non-resident) Olav Myklebust said that the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Norway highlights the longstanding and strong bilateral relationship between the two countries.
In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), His Excellency added that HH the Amir’s « visit will further strengthen our bilateral relations and cooperation in areas of common interest such as: economic cooperation, technological change and green transition, as well as multilateral cooperation, regional peace and stability, including conflict resolution, » pointing out that HRH Crown Prince Haakon of Norways visit to Qatar in 2019 marked the successful and longstanding industrial cooperation between Norway and Qatar.

He explained that the Amir’s visit comes at a critical time for the Middle East, and expressed his country’s appreciation for Qatar central role in the push for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

« Norway and Qatar share a common interest in stability and security in the region. The visit will allow for dialogue on joint efforts for peace and reconciliation in the region and beyond, » he said.

The Norwegian Ambassador noted that the central topics to be discussed include regional challenges and security issues, as well as peace and conflict resolution, emphasizing that both Qatar and Norway share a similar approach to mediation and facilitation, and actively contribute to conflict resolution. « By strengthening our cooperation to promote peace we can achieve even better results », he stressed.
He also said, « energy security and green transition are also important topics that will be addressed. There is a need for transforming the world’s energy production to a achieve a greener future. Our countries are both important contributors to European energy security and we share similar interests in the energy sector, including developments related to the green transition, » adding that there are currently ongoing talks about several different cooperation agreements in various areas.
On the relationship between the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Norway, His Excellency said that the Norway and Qatar share a longstanding and strong bilateral relationship, and a long industrial history, pointing out that in 2019, HRH Crown Prince Haakon of Norway visited Qatar for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of industrial cooperation between Norway and Qatar.

Norwegian business has been present in the State of Qatar since Norwegian Hydro (now Yara) established itself as a pioneer in the 1960s, he said, adding that « our joint ventures QAFCO and Qatalum are success stories. Our relationship has continued on a positive trajectory in recent years, with several new areas of collaboration. There are good opportunities for further cooperation, especially in the areas of maritime technology, clean energy and the green maritime industry. » HE the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to the State of Qatar expressed his appreciation for HH the Amir and his delegation for seizing the opportunity to visit Norway, noting in this context that high-level visits of this kind have an important catalyzing effect for cooperation, especially as the visit will highlight the valuable benefits of our two countries bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation.

« The volume of trade and investment exchange between our countries has developed over time and continues to grow. The total value of Norways exports to Qatar has grown over the past 10 years and investments have increased substantially over just the past few years. Seafood, and in particular salmon, is a major Norwegian export item to Qatar, with well over 1000 tons annually. Qatar Airways is also a crucial partner for Norwegian exports to other countries, » His Excellency said.
He noted that Norwegian company Kongsberg Maritime is delivering top class electronic steering systems to LNG ships being built for Qatar Energy and is increasing substantially its number of employees in Doha.

HE the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to the State of Qatar (non-resident) Olav Myklebust concluded his statements by pointing out that « energy transition and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) are other areas where I see great opportunities for cooperation. So, I am confident that the economic ties between our countries will continue to strengthen over time, » stressing that Qatar and Norway have a lot in common. (QNA)

Norwegian Foreign Affairs State Secretary to QNA: HH the Amir’s Visit a Key Opportunity to Discuss Pressing Issues

Oslo, September 04 (QNA) – HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani’s official visit to the Kingdom of Norway will facilitate deliberations on multiple issues of common concern, said HE State Secretary for Foreign Affairs in the Kingdom of Norway Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik.

In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), His Excellency said the visit would enable the two countries to elevate the already powerful existing relations and to take stock of multiple collaboration areas including defense, trade, peace and reconciliation, and the current world challenges.

He added that the State of Qatar has been a key years-long mediator to settle conflicts on the world stage, and that Qatar and Norway have partnered to mediate many conflicts including Ukraine, Afghanistan, Venezuela, and the Gaza Strip.

HH the Amir’s visit will offer an opportunity to bolster bilateral relations by sharing visions to settle challenging conflicts, he added.

Highlighting Oslo’s support for Doha’s global mediation efforts for peace, reconciliation and mediation, he lauded Qatar’s key role to streamline a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, and its hosting of the UN’s Doha Process on Afghanistan, meetings that sought to establish a further coordinated approach to Afghanistans challenges.

He added that the two sides had adopted a common approach to settle the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, noting his close relations with his Qatari counterpart.

His Excellency stressed that HH the Amir’s visit is an invitation to raise the level of close relations between the two countries and strengthen them, noting that the mutual official visits constitute an opportunity to develop bilateral relations in many areas, such as; the climate crisis, security policies, trade relations, and others.

His Excellency stated that the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Norway play a key role on the global stage, by seeking solutions to many escalating crises, especially those in Ukraine, Afghanistan, Venezuela and Gaza, noting that Qatar and Norway have a common interest in cooperating to find better ways to exchange information and share best practices in this regard, especially as the two countries are preparing to sign a memorandum of understanding to enhance work in peace and reconciliation.

He added that Qatar had adopted an impartial and professional approach, pointing to its effective role in issues related to Venezuela and Afghanistan.

He also hailed Qatar’s efforts to facilitate cease-fire talks in the Gaza Strip.

When it comes to peace and reconciliation, Qatar is a world leader and Oslo is proud to collaborate with it, His Excellency said, voicing hopes that deliberations during HH the Amir’s visit would further develop the existing partnerships with the State of Qatar.

(QNA)