Sanya showcases tourism offerings, seeks stronger ties with Qatar

Finland acknowledges Qatar's pivotal role in peace mediation and conflict resolution, recognizing Qatar as a reliable and persistent advocate for peace. H E Outi Holopainen, Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Security Policy at Finland's Ministry for Foreign Affairs, emphasized Qatar's consistent foreign policy focus on peace during a media roundtable following Finland Week in Doha.

Holopainen highlighted Qatar's instrumental contribution in convening parties, facilitating discussions and seeking solutions to conflicts. She praised Qatar as a significant player in promoting peace, noting the limited number of actors engaged in such work.

The two nations have maintained a robust dialogue on peace mediation over the past few years, reflecting their shared commitment to peaceful resolutions. Holopainen emphasized the importance of leveraging international platforms, such as the United Nations, to highlight mediation efforts.

Finland, alongside Türkiye, aims to underscore mediation's significance in international diplomacy, positioning peace mediation as a cornerstone of Finnish foreign policy. Holopainen expressed sympathy for Qatar amid unlawful strikes, stressing the necessity of cooperation in a volatile global landscape.

Bilateral relations between Finland and Qatar have flourished in recent years, bolstered by the establishment of embassies and high-level engagements. The visit of Qatar's Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Helsinki two years ago further energized the relationship, leading to strengthened cooperation in various fields.

Holopainen suggested potential expansion of cooperation in defense, societal resilience, technology, artificial intelligence, space, and cybersecurity. The comprehensive security model of Finland, focusing on societal preparedness for diverse situations, aligns with Qatar's interests.

Education links between the two countries, exemplified by the 12-year-old Qatar-Finland International School, have fostered people-to-people ties and cross-disciplinary collaborations in research, science, technology, and innovation.

Finland Week, organized to introduce Finland to Qatar and foster mutual understanding, showcases Finland's culture, education, innovation, design, and music. With a direct flight between Doha and Helsinki, tourism emerges as a means to deepen these connections, drawing visitors to Finland's natural beauty, arts, music, and cultural attractions.