a day ago
We'll continue working with our Qatari friends to strengthen ties in all fields: Russian envoy
Ashraf Siddiqui
Doha
Ambassador of Russia to Qatar HE Dmitry Dogadkin has expressed his satisfaction with the active development of bilateral relations between Qatar and Russia.
Speaking at a gala reception to celebrate Russia's National Day, he said, 'We will continue working together with our Qatari friends to strengthen our ties in all fields.'
The event was attended by Minister of Municipality of Qatar HE Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiya, Director of the Department of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Ambassador Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro, Ambassador of Eritrea and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps HE Ali Ibrahim Ahmed, members of the diplomatic community, dignitaries and distinguished guests.
Ambassador Dogadkin noted that political dialogue between Russia and Qatar has reached an unprecedented level, with both countries sharing aligned views on most global and regional issues.
He highlighted the continued engagement between the nations' leadership, citing the state visit of the His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Moscow in April, and the visits of Russian Foreign Minister HE Sergey Lavrov to Doha in December and February.
He expressed gratitude to Qatar for its balanced stance on the Ukraine conflict and this principled approach reflects the wise leadership of HH the Amir.
On the economic front, the ambassador emphasised growing cooperation, including the fifth session of the Joint Intergovernmental Committee on Trade, Economic, and Technical Cooperation – the first since 2019.
'Qatar remains the largest investor in the Russian economy, and our trade and business ties show great potential,' he noted.
He also acknowledged the rise in cultural and humanitarian exchanges.
'In 2024, 120,000 Russians visited Qatar, and 11,000 Qataris visited Russia. Qatar has become one of the most popular destinations in the Middle East for Russian tourists,' he said.
Ambassador Dogadkin thanked attendees for joining the celebration, saying, 'We mark one of our most important national holidays, reflecting on our achievements and the resilience of the Russian people, who continue to defend our homeland and contribute to its progress.'
He extended appreciation to countries that have supported Russia's sovereignty and criticised what he called attempts by the 'collective West' to impose its will.
'We are not intimidated by sanctions – over 30,000 have been imposed against us – the most in the world. Yet, we stand strong.'
He reaffirmed Russia's commitment to peace through dialogue, emphasising that the root causes of the Ukraine conflict must be addressed.
He said, 'Our goals will be achieved, and we look to the future with confidence and optimism, knowing we stand on the side of truth.'
The envoy thanked HE Ibrahim Yousif Fakhro, PJSC Gazprom, especially Dmitry Solovyov, the Sheraton Grand Doha team, and all guests for their presence and support.
The Russian envoy impressed the guests by delivering his address in fluent Arabic.
The cake-cutting ceremony was followed by generous hospitality, featuring an array of Russian and local cuisine.
A cultural corner was also set up, showcasing items representing Russian culture and heritage.
