Dutch Foreign Minister to (QNA): Qatar's Role in European Energy Security is Important and Vital

Doha, January 13 (QNA) - HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Wopke Hoekstra, affirmed that the contribution of the State of Qatar and its role in European energy security is important and vital, as it is one of the largest suppliers of liquefied natural gas in the world. In exclusive statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the sidelines of his visit to Doha, His Excellency expressed his country's aspiration to continue working with the State of Qatar on issues of common concern and to expand cooperation between the two friendly countries, whether in bilateral or regional issues. His Excellency drew attention to the important and active role played by the State of Qatar in the region, including the promotion of regional dialogue and mutual understanding, expressing his country's appreciation for the mediation efforts undertaken by Qatar in various regions, noting at the same time that the Netherlands and Qatar are partners in such efforts. His Excellency also expressed his happiness at visiting the State of Qatar, which enjoys excellent bilateral relations with the Netherlands, and his aspiration to continue strengthening these relations on the economic and political levels. His Excellency added that the world is growing unstable and unpredictable, and in such a situation, Netherlands needs partners with whom it can cooperate in order to achieve stability and improve security. "In our meetings with Qatari officials, we emphasized the value of our partnership, and looked forward to a future in which we can expand and deepen this partnership." His Excellency added. His Excellency continued by saying: "It was a pleasure to speak with HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, and to emphasize the strong bilateral relations between our two countries, as we discussed issues of common concern, including global energy security and regional developments." His Excellency highly appreciated the role of the State of Qatar and its constant and continuous assistance in the flights from Afghanistan via Doha to the Netherlands, which had an effective and decisive impact in returning hundreds of Dutch and Afghan citizens to their final destinations, expressing his hope that this cooperation will continue. His Excellency explained that during his visit to Doha, he also held fruitful talks with HE Minister of Labor Dr. Ali bin bin Smaikh Al Marri, and HE Head of the International Labor Organization office in Doha Max Tonon, about the reform agenda being implemented by the State of Qatar in the labor sector. HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Wopke Hoekstra expressed his gratitude for signing a memorandum of understanding to enhance the ongoing joint efforts in this field, looking forward to continuing the dialogue and work on sustainable improvements. (QNA)