His Excellency Sheikh Mubarak bin Fahad Al-Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar in Belgrade, delivered a virtual speech on the occasion of the National Day, in which he indicated that the State of Qatar celebrates this historic day on the eighteenth of December of each year, marking the day on which the late founder of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Jassim Bin Mohammed Bin Thani took over the reins of power. He added that the Covid-19 pandemic prevented holding a celebration this year, as the measures taken to prevent the spread of the virus imposed a new reality wherein activities revolve in virtual reality.
He noted that the continuation of the unjust blockade imposed by some neighboring countries on the State of Qatar for the fourth year in a row did not deter the State of Qatar from achieving economic and urban development and steadfastness in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, as the State of Qatar witnessed a comprehensive renaissance and its health system proved its readiness, so it remained one of the least affected countries by the pandemic in the world. The State of Qatar also intensified its activities in international community issues such as climate change, combating poverty, combating terrorism and others, in addition to adopting wise and responsible policies, and contributing to resolving many conflicts by peaceful means through dialogue, which strengthened the position of the State of Qatar and established its role as an active partner on the regional and international scene.
He stressed that the State of Qatar, realizing the importance of international cooperation in dealing with the pandemic, has supported the efforts of the international community, and provided the necessary assistance to more than seventy countries and international organizations, including the friendly Republic of Serbia. Noting that the State of Qatar pays special attention to strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries by activating the concluded agreements and intensifying the exchange of visits between senior officials to raise bilateral relations to the highest levels under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, and His Excellency Mr. Alexander Vucic, President of the Republic of Serbia.
He added that although the Covid-19 pandemic has inflicted heavy damage on most economic activities at the global level, the Republic of Serbia has succeeded in countering its negative effects to a large extent, as expectations indicate that it will witness the lowest decline in GDP in Europe. Serbia also showed solidarity, as it provided support and assistance to neighboring countries, Italy, China and others, at a time when it was facing great challenges as a result of the virus.
To watch the celebration click on the following video: