Doha, December 12 (QNA) - HE Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to the State of Qatar Erika Bernhard affirmed that the State of Qatar's remarkable growth over the past years is a key factor of the country's comprehensive renaissance.

In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the occasion of National Day, Her Excellency said Qatar, guided by Qatar National Vision 2030, has pursued a comprehensive renaissance that spans infrastructure, education, healthcare, culture, sports and the diversification of its economy, adding that one can see this not only in the impressive skyline or in world-class facilities, but also in the strategic thinking behind long-term investments in human capital and knowledge-based sectors.

HE the Ambassador noted the strength of Austrian-Qatari relations, which celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations this year, calling it a milestone that reflects a partnership built on trust, friendship and a very constructive dialogue at all levels.

Today, she mentioned, more than 60 Austrian companies are active in the Qatari market, adding that Austrian trade volume continues to grow, and Austrian products and expertise enjoy a strong reputation among Qatari partners.

Economically, Austrian firms have contributed to flagship projects in Qatar's development, from stadiums and metro infrastructure to healthcare and specialized engineering, while recent business forums and investment dialogues in Doha have underlined a shared ambition to further expand trade and investment flows between the two countries, Her Excellency added.

Culturally, Her Excellency noted, this year has been marked by a rich program of joint activities and cultural events including the "Austria Luxury Showcase," all celebrating 50 years of friendship between our two countries.

HE the Ambassador emphasized that the future holds great potential for expanded cooperation in sustainable and smart technologies, in tourism and education, in culture and creative industries, and in working together for regional and global stability.

Her Excellency expressed Austria's desire to deepen this partnership over the next 50 years and beyond, as the first 50 constitute a very solid foundation, and are just the beginning.

"Qatar has developed an active and principled foreign policy, centered on dialogue, mediation and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Over the past years, it has established itself as a trusted interlocutor in regional and international crises, working to bring parties to the negotiating table and to open channels of communication when they are most needed," Her Excellency told QNA.

She said, "Qatar's engagement has made an important contribution to regional stability, humanitarian access and de-escalation in sensitive contexts. We particularly value Qatar's consistent commitment to multilateralism, international law and cooperative solutions, whether in the framework of the United Nations, regional organizations or informal diplomatic initiatives."

The successful hosting of major international events, most notably the FIFA World Cup, Expo 2023 Doha, the Second World Summit for Social Development 2025 and a number of high-level political, economic and cultural conferences, has demonstrated Qatar's ability to organize complex undertakings while opening itself confidently to the world, HE Ambassador stressed.

She added that Qatar has also been able to confidently open up to the world, while institutions such as the Museum of Islamic Art, the National Museum, Katara, and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra highlight Qatar's significant investment in culture and the preservation of its heritage, while simultaneously embracing innovation.

Her Excellency extended her warmest congratulations to Qatar's leadership, government and people, as well as expressing gratitude for the excellent cooperation between the two countries and that friendly relations will continue to grow deeper, in mutual understanding and in the common pursuit of peace, prosperity and cultural exchange.

HE the Ambassador stated that Qatar National Day is a moment of pride and reflection for everyone who calls this country home, which celebrate the values of unity, resilience and visionary leadership that continue to guide the country's development today.

HE the Ambassador of the Republic of Austria said on the occasion of National Day that "for Qatari citizens, it is a celebration of nation-building, identity and continuity between past and future. For residents, it is an opportunity to honour the generosity with which Qatar has opened its doors and to recognise the contributions of a diverse community that shares in the country's success."

Concluding her statement to QNA, HE the Ambassador expressed her delight at the coincidence of Qatar National Day's celebrations this year with Austria's football team reaching the final of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, hosted by Doha, thanks to the tremendous support the team received from Qatari fans.

She stated that Austria's success in reaching the final demonstrates how the younger generation is strengthening the friendship between the two countries, a friendship both sides hope will continue to grow and develop through mutual understanding and a shared pursuit of peace, prosperity, and cultural exchange. (QNA)