Doha: The Kingdom of Sweden and the State of Qatar are poised to deepen their bilateral relationship, with both countries committed to building a long-term partnership across a range of strategic sectors, HE Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard has said. Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) following a visit to Doha this week, Stenergard described her talks with Qatari officials as constructive and productive, reflecting what she called the "strong momentum" in relations between the two nations.
According to Qatar News Agency, the minister said the meetings confirmed the strong momentum in Sweden-Qatar relations and their shared ambition to deepen cooperation. Trade and investment, defense and security, innovation, digitalization, sustainable development, and healthcare were among the key areas discussed. Regional developments also featured prominently in the talks, with both sides emphasizing the importance of diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting stability and reducing tensions across the region.
A major outcome of the visit was the reaffirmation of a shared commitment to dialogue and long-term cooperation. Stenergard expressed optimism about the future, stating, "I look forward to seeing our cooperation continue to grow in the years ahead." She highlighted significant opportunities for closer collaboration as Qatar advances its National Vision 2030 development agenda, with Sweden offering expertise in innovation, sustainability, digital transformation, healthcare, education, and advanced industries.
Agreements reached during and following the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Sweden in 2024 established a solid foundation for future cooperation. Bilateral collaboration now extends beyond economic ties to include political dialogue on regional and international issues, security cooperation, and mediation efforts.
Stenergard emphasized that the goal is to translate positive political momentum into a long-term partnership that delivers concrete benefits for both countries. Addressing the future of bilateral relations, she said Sweden views Qatar as an important long-term partner and remains committed to strengthening ties in the years ahead. Sweden's strengths in advanced manufacturing, green technologies, digital solutions, and a vibrant technology and start-up sector present promising opportunities for Qatari businesses and investors.
Turning to regional developments, the Swedish foreign minister expressed concern over ongoing tensions in the Middle East and called for continued diplomatic engagement. "Sweden views the US/Israel-Iran war with great concern," she said. "Our position is clear: we urge all parties to continue the talks and pursue a diplomatic solution." There is a strong international interest in achieving a sustainable agreement that would help secure long-term stability and prevent further escalation.
Stenergard stressed the importance of solidarity and dialogue with regional partners and reiterated Sweden's condemnation of Iran's attacks on Qatar and neighboring countries. The minister praised Qatar's standing on the international stage, describing it as a respected actor with significant diplomatic influence. Sweden and Qatar share a strong belief in diplomacy, peaceful solutions based on international law, the protection of civilians, and humanitarian principles. Conflict mediation is already an area of cooperation between the two countries and one that offers considerable scope for further expansion.
In a message to the Qatari people and business community, Stenergard expressed confidence about the future of bilateral relations and thanked Qatar for the hospitality shown during her visit. "Sweden values the friendship between our countries and looks forward to building even stronger ties based on trust, cooperation, and mutual respect," she said. "In a rapidly changing world, strong partnerships matter more than ever."