Austria and Qatar are deepening their diplomatic and economic ties while reinforcing cooperation in culture and education, Austria’s Ambassador to Qatar, HE Erika Bernhard, said during Austria’s National Day celebrations on Tuesday in Lusail. The event took place at the Waldorf Astoria hotel and brought together diplomats, business leaders, media representatives, and members of the Austrian community.
Ambassador Bernhard highlighted Qatar’s expanding role as a mediator in regional and global conflicts, emphasizing Doha’s dedication to dialogue, conflict resolution, and promoting peace and security amid ongoing regional challenges. She noted that Austria values Qatar’s commitment to constructive engagement and peaceful cooperation.
Austria’s National Day, observed annually on October 26, marks the country’s 1955 decision to adopt a policy of permanent neutrality. Bernhard clarified that this neutrality represents military non-alignment and does not imply political indifference. She reaffirmed Austria’s dedication to upholding international law and fostering peaceful relations worldwide.
This year holds particular significance for bilateral relations as Austria marks the 50th anniversary of its embassy in Doha. It also coincides with the 55th anniversary of Qatar’s independence in 1971, which Austria formally recognised soon after. Bernhard recalled Qatar’s participation in the Fifth UN Alliance of Civilizations Forum in Vienna in 2013, highlighting the involvement of the late Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser as a sign of Qatar’s openness to dialogue and cultural exchange.
Recent diplomatic engagements were also underscored, including political consultations held in Vienna and a meeting on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly between Austrian Foreign Minister HE Beate Meinl-Reisinger and Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. These contacts reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation in various fields.
Bernhard expressed appreciation to Qatari authorities for their support during recent regional disruptions, particularly their assistance in facilitating departures for Austrian citizens stranded amid the crisis. Despite the challenges, most Austrians residing in Qatar chose to remain, viewing the country as a second home and actively contributing to its economic, educational, cultural, and social sectors.
The event also featured attendance by senior Qatari officials, including Minister of Labour HE Dr Ali Samaikh Al Marri and Director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Ibrahim Yousuf Fakhro. Representatives from the European Union and various diplomatic missions, including HE Ambassador Luigi Di Mario, EU Special Representative for the Gulf, and Ambassador Ali Ibrahim Ahmed, Eritrea’s Ambassador and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, were present, reflecting the wide-ranging international engagement with Qatar.