Doha: Syria's charge d'affaires in Doha, Dr. Bilal Turkiya, has praised Qatar's national development journey and its rising regional and international profile, describing Qatar National Day as a moment for reflection on the country's "pioneering" progress.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Turkiya said the occasion embodies unity, loyalty, and appreciation for the state-building foundations laid by Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, Qatar's founder. He further noted that the day highlights what he called Qatar's far-reaching transformation in governance, infrastructure, and diplomacy under its wise leadership.
He said the national day is not only a celebration, but also a reminder of the authentic values that define Qatari society, including solidarity, generosity, and commitment to work. Qatar's openness and emphasis on coexistence, he added, have turned the celebration into an inclusive event shared by citizens and expatriates alike.
Dr. Turkiya underlined Qatar's achievements in sectors such as the economy, education, sport, and humanitarian diplomacy, saying these had made the country a regional model for sustainable development. Qatar's growing diplomatic influence, he said, has been shaped by a balanced foreign policy and an approach rooted in dialogue and peace under the leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
He further noted that this year's national day slogan, "With you it rises, and from you it awaits" - a phrase drawn from HH the Amir's 2016 speech at Qatar University, reflects the central role of Qatari citizens in shaping the nation's progress.
The envoy also highlighted Qatar's rapid modernisation across key sectors including infrastructure, scientific research, energy, healthcare, culture, and the arts. He said these gains stem from long-term strategic planning aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, and have helped create a stable and competitive environment driven by innovation and openness.
Qatar, he said, has now positioned itself as a regional hub for energy, the economy, education, and major global events - a status that he believes provides broader horizons for cooperation between Syria and Qatar, especially in fields related to knowledge and human development.
Dr. Turkiya said Doha's role during the Syrian crisis - particularly its humanitarian support - remains deeply valued by Syrians. Qatar, he noted, has consistently advocated for people affected by conflict and contributed to relief, development, and political efforts addressing the Syrian situation.
According to the envoy, Syrian-Qatari relations have entered a new phase since what he described as the liberation of Syria and the start of the country's new political chapter. He said that ties have strengthened rapidly, with Qatar reopening its embassy in Damascus in December 2024 and reaffirming support for political and humanitarian initiatives.
This year, he added, the two countries signed a wide range of cooperation agreements spanning energy, trade, finance, tourism, telecommunications, and higher education. Qatar also continued delivering humanitarian and development aid, and joined major joint initiatives with Saudi Arabia aimed at improving essential services in Syria. Qatari financial institutions have also expanded their involvement in supporting Syria's banking sector, he said.
Dr. Turkiya concluded his remarks to QNA by offering congratulations to Qatar's leadership and people on the national day, wishing the country continued stability and prosperity.