Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani left Nicosia yesterday after a fruitful official visit to the Republic of Cyprus and arrived in Athens on a state visit to the Hellenic Republic. The relationship between Qatar and Greece is marked by robust diplomatic engagement, underscored by high-level visits and strategic dialogues. Official diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 2007, with opening of embassies in Athens and Doha. This foundation has enabled the two countries to build a resilient partnership, marked by mutual visits of leaders and key officials.
Economic collaboration is a cornerstone of Qatar-Greece relations, characterised by significant investments and bilateral trade agreements. Qatar’s investments in Greece span several sectors, including energy, tourism, hospitality and real estate. The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has been actively involved in various Greek projects, contributing to Greece’s economic recovery and growth. In 2021, trade between Qatar and Greece grew by 120%, reaching approximately QR897m, compared to QR409m in 2020.
Greece is developing a floating unit to convert LNG off the coast of Alexandroupoli, with plans for additional units. This project is a potential avenue for increased Qatari investments. A Qatar-Greece Business Forum was held in May 2019 and it was disclosed that eight Greek companies and around 56 Qatari-Greek companies are operating in the Qatari market in several sectors, such as trading, contracting, engineering, industrial consultancy, cargo, marine services and decoration. Qatar is working to consolidate and strengthen bilateral relations with the Hellenic Republic through mutual diplomatic support in international forums, signing several agreements and increasing air traffic between the two countries as well as completing important pending agreements that highlight the strengthening of bilateral relations.
Cultural exchanges, including festivals and exhibitions, play an important role in promoting the rich heritages of both nations. Tourism also could play a vital role in developing people-to-people ties. Greece’s scenic landscapes and historical sites are major attractions for tourists from Qatar, while Qatar’s luxury offerings, Arabic culture and hospitality appeal to Greek travellers. Many of them visited Doha during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 20222. Enhanced aviation links, with Qatar Airways adding destinations such as Thessaloniki and Mykonos have facilitated travel and tourism.
The Qatar-Greece relationship holds significant potential for further growth. Both nations are committed to deepening their partnership across various sectors, including trade, energy and culture. The continued expansion of ties coupled with strong diplomatic and cultural connections is expected to drive the relationship to new heights. Both nations are poised to deepen their partnership, leveraging their economic strengths and strategic interests to achieve mutual growth and prosperity.
