Doha: Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa, has expressed strong support for Qatar's mediation efforts and condemned the Israeli attack on Qatar as completely unacceptable. Highlighting the key aspects of bilateral relations and cooperation prospects between Sweden and Qatar, Dousa emphasized the importance of collaboration in economic, developmental, and humanitarian fields.

According to Qatar News Agency, the Minister outlined the motives for his visit to Qatar, recognizing its role as an economic powerhouse and a stabilizing factor in the region. Dousa acknowledged the significant potential for further trade collaboration and highlighted the robust opportunities in technology and entrepreneurship, given Sweden's vibrant startup ecosystem.

On humanitarian cooperation, the Minister pointed out the shared perspectives between Sweden and Qatar, despite different regional focuses, with both countries being major donors in conflict areas like Gaza, Syria, and Ukraine. He stressed the strength of bilateral relations, noting the existing strong ties and mutual respect that lay the foundation for expanding cooperation across various sectors.

Dousa revealed that the trade exchange between Sweden and Qatar currently amounts to 800 million USD, primarily involving the exchange of oil-related products, machinery, and communication equipment. He also discussed the potential for increased joint investments and international cooperation to support less developed countries.

The Minister praised Qatar's role in international mediation, noting its significant contributions to stabilizing regions, including the war in Ukraine. He reiterated Sweden's support for these efforts, emphasizing the shared commitment to mediation and conflict resolution.

Addressing the recent Israeli attack on Qatar, Dousa condemned the act as a violation of international law and an assault on Qatar's sovereignty. He expressed Sweden's full solidarity with Qatar and its mediation initiatives.

Concluding the interview, the Minister lauded Qatar's economic achievements and reiterated Sweden's commitment to long-term cooperation, expressing optimism for the future of bilateral relations and the potential for deeper collaboration across various sectors.