Swiss envoy highlights expanding ties with Qatar, shared commitment to peace

Doha: The Ambassador of Switzerland to Qatar, H E Florence Tinguely Mattli, reaffirmed the growing strength, depth, and dynamism of Qatar–Switzerland relations during her address at the Swiss Day–Doha 2025 celebration held on Wednesday.

Speaking before government representatives, diplomats, business leaders, academics, and members of the Swiss community, the envoy underscored the two nations’ shared vision for peace, humanitarian cooperation, and innovation.

In attendance at the event were Minister of Transport H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library H E Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari, and Director of the Department of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro.

Ambassador Tinguely Mattli opened her remarks by praising the “vibrant relations” between the two countries, stressing that their close ties have become even more crucial amid a rapidly evolving and challenging global landscape. With conflicts ongoing in more than 120 locations worldwide, including Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Sudan, and Ukraine, she said the need for peaceful dialogue, humanitarian action, and multilateral collaboration has never been greater.

The envoy commended Qatar for its significant role in mediation efforts, particularly in relation to Gaza negotiations and support for Syria. She noted that despite its contributions, Qatar has not been immune to the consequences of regional instability, referencing the recent attacks on the country. Switzerland, she said, “condemned the two attacks, which not only violated Qatar’s sovereignty but targeted a country committed to building peace.” She lauded Qatar’s leadership under Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, highlighting the nation’s strong support for international law, humanitarian principles, and multilateral engagement. Qatar’s generous humanitarian aid and unwavering backing of global institutions, she said, align closely with Switzerland’s long-standing values.

Ambassador Tinguely Mattli emphasised the importance of the United Nations’ Geneva ecosystem—where Switzerland plays a critical global role—stating that ongoing UN reforms must strengthen rather than fragment multilateral cooperation. She praised Qatar for its “outstanding organisation” of the Second World Summit for Social Development, expressing hope that the resulting Doha Political Declaration would give needed momentum to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Turning to bilateral achievements, the Ambassador highlighted two major agreements signed in recent months. The first, a mediation and facilitation cooperation agreement inked in Bern, aims to merge the two countries’ expertise to bolster global peacebuilding efforts. The second, signed on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, strengthens cooperation on humanitarian assistance and development.

She also pointed to deepening academic and scientific ties, noting that a recent visit by Switzerland’s State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation opened new avenues for collaboration in artificial intelligence and life sciences. Switzerland looks forward, she said, to working with Qatar in “science diplomacy” and shaping governance frameworks for emerging technologies.