DOHA: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani has stressed that the National Day is a lofty and inspiring national occasion that embodies the spirit of unity, cohesion and belonging among citizens, and confirms their pride in the memory of the founder of the state, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, who laid the foundations of a strong and unified state, and made Qatar a model of steadfastness and independence.
In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), the prime minister said, "This day is a great and renewed opportunity to emphasize the continuation of the exceptional achievements in various fields under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who leads Qatar with determination and confidence towards new horizons, committed to continuing to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030 and enhance its position on the international scene."
He pointed out that "celebrating this national occasion confirms our commitment as successive generations to follow the path of our fathers and grandfathers, committed to defending the homeland and its dignity, working with all sincerity to raise it, advance it and prosper it, and we renew our pledge to continue the path of development and giving under the banner of the wise leadership,” adding that "on the anniversary of this special day, the Qatari society, with its citizens and residents on its land, strengthens their loyalty and solidarity to continue the path of development and renaissance under the sky of a generous homeland, proud of its solid values and ambitious vision.”
The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs explained that the founder, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, laid a solid foundation for an independent state based on unity, justice, noble human values and a renewed desire for development and growth. He established the pillars of the modern State of Qatar, and was an example of piety, justice and courage, a lover of science and knowledge, endowed with the wisdom of leadership and the spirit of sacrifice. After him, the rulers of the State of Qatar followed his righteous approach, demonstrating prestige, wisdom and integrity, and embodying the spirit of consensus and national unity.
In his statement to QNA, Sheikh Mohammed noted that the noble deeds, immortal giving and great sacrifices made by the ancestors for the unity, sovereignty and prosperity of the State of Qatar remain the pillar, driving force and beacon that illuminates the path for us towards more achievements under the leadership of His Highness the Amir of the country, pointing out that the celebration of the National Day is a celebration of the achievements made at various levels.
Regarding Qatar's achievements at the diplomatic level, he said, "The occasion of the National Day is a dear occasion through which we reaffirm that we at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are keen to implement the directives of His Highness the Amir of the country to achieve the aspirations and interests of the people, and the strategic interests of the state, especially strengthening close cooperation relations with various countries and organizations."
He explained that the State of Qatar has, since its establishment, followed wise policies based on fair principles, and has effectively contributed to strengthening and consolidating international peace and security by supporting the settlement and resolution of international disputes through peaceful means. It also plays a leading role in pivotal global issues of concern to the international community, such as: climate change, combating poverty, fighting terrorism, and providing humanitarian and relief aid, which has strengthened its position on the international scene, made it occupy a prestigious position on the international scene, and earned it the respect of the world.
In the context of the mediation efforts made by the State of Qatar in partnership with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs referred to the results of the tripartite mediation efforts, including a humanitarian truce agreement in November 2023, which led to a temporary ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the release of 240 Palestinian prisoners and 109 detainees, and an increase in the flow of relief shipments.
He pointed out that the Qatari mediation resulted in an exchange of detainees between the United States and Venezuela, and the reunification of dozens of Ukrainian children with their families after they were separated by war.
The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed that the State of Qatar, with its firm determination and wise vision, will remain a beacon of hope and peace, and will continue its tireless efforts to contribute to achieving global security and stability, stressing that "the State of Qatar will remain a haven for the oppressed, and will always seek to contribute to preserving security and stability."
Regarding the most prominent goals that the State seeks as it enters a new phase of development in light of the Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030), the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, pointed out that this year’s celebration comes at a special time, as the State of Qatar is confidently moving towards a new phase of development within the framework of the Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030), which is a decisive step towards achieving Qatar National Vision 2030.
In this context, he reviewed the efforts made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance the position of the State of Qatar regionally and internationally through an integrated diplomatic strategy that focuses on strengthening relations with friendly and sisterly countries, and enhancing cooperation in the fields of security, economy and sustainable development, in addition to its focus on developing strategic relations that contribute to achieving national interests and enhancing regional and global security.
He highlighted the precise focus on developing future sectors that constitute key drivers of sustainable growth, such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and innovative industries, through increased investments in these vital areas, in addition to working to benefit from technological and digital transformations, which enhances the country’s ability to diversify the economy and confirms its pioneering role in leading global transformations.
At the end of his statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA),the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, noted the deep commitment of the State of Qatar, through its ambitious strategy, to continue its path towards development, enhance its leadership in all fields, and strive to achieve further progress and prosperity, reflecting its insightful vision for a better tomorrow.