His Excellency Sheikh Mubarak bin Fahad Al-Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar in Belgrade, held a reception on the occasion of the National day of the State of Qatar, at Hyatt Regency hotel. Approximately 550 guests attended the event, including top ranking officials, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications H.E. Mr. Rasim Ljajic, as well as Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine Karadjordjevic, and representatives of the ministries and Governement of the Republic of Serbia. The event was also attended by the heads of diplomatic missions, public figures, representatives of the political and cultural spheres of the Republic of Serbia, in addition to media and press representatives and religious figures.  

In his welcoming speech, His Excellency the Ambassador thanked the guests for joining the celebration of the National Day of Qatar, in an expression of the brotherly relations between the two friendly countries under the kind auspices of H. H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar and H. E. Mr. Aleksandar Vucic, President of the Republic of Serbia. 

He noted that for the third consecutive year, the unjust blockade imposed on Qatar by some neighboring countries continues, despite the fact that the alleged reasons for the blockade have been repeatedly disproven. Nevertheless, the State of Qatar has succeeded in containing most of the negative effects of the blockade, thanks to its calm and resolute approach to crisis management, and its adherence to the independence of political decisions. Accordingly, Qatar has repeatedly expressed its readiness to resolve all disputes through dialogue on the basis of mutual respect and non-interference in foreign policies and internal affairs. H.E. added that the State of Qatar participates in all efforts aimed at resolving conflicts, achieving peaceful coexistence, protecting the environment, combating poverty, terrorism and its causes. This in turn has strengthened Qatar's position and established its role as an active partner on the regional and international scene.

H.E. the Ambassador stated that the State of Qatar has strengthened its relations with its allies and has developed ties with most of the world’s countries, and that in this regard, it pays special attention to strengthening bilateral cooperation with the Republic of Serbia by increasing the exchange of visits of high-level officials, which has contributed to the establishment of numerous agreements between the two countries. He applauded the commendable progress achieved by the Republic of Serbia with regards to economic development and ensuring a stable life for its citizens, as well as in strengthening its credibility in the international community through a policy of neutrality and moderation in dealing with all regional and international challenges.

In conclusion His Excellency the Ambassador expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to all the guests for their participation in the celebration of Qatar’s National Day.