In press statements following a meeting with president Silva that, H.H. the Emir said Qatar is keen to push forward the middle east peace process, an issue the two leaders discussed during the meeting, and urged the Portuguese government and other European nations to support the middle east peace process despite several obstacles, including the recent Israeli aggression on the Gaza strip. H.H. the Emir said that Qatar is interested in establishing an economic partnership with Portugal in order to boost the bilateral relations , noting that the two sides are keen to open embassies and exchange ambassadors for further mutual cooperation and partnership. For his part, president Silva expressed pleasure over the visit of H.H. the Emir, the first of its kind to Portugal, terming it as a very significant event, noting that the visit constitutes a historical turning point further bolstering bilateral relations and vehemently contributing to enhance bonds of friendship between the two countries.
The Portuguese leader pointed out that his country and Qatar established their diplomatic ties in 1982, a step that helped enhancing their relations in different domains, mainly the political and economic ones. President Silva also praised the Qatar wise policy and its role in achieving peace in the Middle East, asserting that the two countries have a joint point of view in this regard. The Portuguese leader praised as well the agreements singed between the two countries, especially the investment encouragement agreement, adding that he strongly believes that the two sides will also be able to set up joint activities and investments among Portuguese and Qatari businessmen.
