Spain has reaffirmed its support for Qatar, with Spain Qatar Ties taking centre stage during the country’s National Day celebration in Doha. Spanish Ambassador Dr Álvaro Renedo Zalba praised Qatar’s resilience and commitment to diplomacy amid escalating regional tensions. He also emphasized the importance of international law, dialogue and cooperation in addressing conflicts and protecting regional stability.
The reception brought together senior Qatari officials, diplomats and other distinguished guests. Attendees included Minister of Public Health H E Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad Al Mahmoud, Minister of State and Qatar National Library President H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari, and Foreign Ministry Protocol Department Director H E Ambassador Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro. Their presence reflected the diplomatic engagement between Qatar and Spain.
During his address, Ambassador Renedo Zalba described Qatar as a close friend of Spain and praised its response to current regional challenges. He condemned attacks against Qatar, describing them as violations of national sovereignty and international law. Furthermore, he expressed support for efforts by Qatar, Pakistan and other mediators to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation.
The ambassador warned that prolonged hostilities could create consequences extending well beyond the immediate region. He also condemned attacks on airports in Riyadh and Abbas, alongside violence in Gaza and Russia’s war against Ukraine. In his remarks, he stressed that international law, human rights and peaceful negotiations must remain central to efforts toward lasting stability.
He argued that peace requires consistent respect for legal principles and meaningful diplomatic engagement. In addition, the ambassador paid tribute to the late Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. He recognized the former leader’s contribution to Qatar’s development and its growing international role.
Regarding Palestine, the ambassador described the situation as an urgent international concern. He reiterated Spain’s support for humanitarian assistance, the Palestinian National Authority and a two-state solution. Moreover, he opposed the annexation of Palestinian territory, forced displacement and settler violence, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and sustainable resolution.
Beyond political issues, the ambassador highlighted expanding commercial relations between Spain and Qatar. Spanish companies operate in several Qatari sectors, including energy, technology, education, agriculture and infrastructure. These activities provide opportunities for investment, business partnerships and knowledge exchange. Consequently, Spain Qatar Ties extend beyond diplomatic engagement into economic development and cooperation across industries.
Security cooperation also featured prominently in the ambassador’s remarks. He noted that both countries had agreed on an action plan addressing counterterrorism and crime prevention. Additionally, the two governments signed a letter of intent concerning security cooperation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Spain will co-host. The document followed a meeting between their interior ministers in Madrid the previous month.
The ambassador also expressed anticipation for the second Qatar-Spain Strategic Dialogue, following its inaugural session in Madrid. The dialogue offers both governments an opportunity to discuss shared priorities and strengthen bilateral coordination. Meanwhile, cultural and sporting links continue to support closer connections between their communities.
Spanish coaches work with several Qatari football clubs and Aspire Academy, demonstrating the countries’ sporting ties. The ambassador also highlighted Spain’s international reputation for tourism, culture and gastronomy. He noted that Spain welcomed nearly 100 million visitors during the previous year.
The celebration featured artistic performances by students from SEK and Oryx International Schools. Guests also experienced Spanish cuisine prepared by chefs from Valencia, the region associated with paella. These activities showcased Spain’s cultural heritage while encouraging exchange between Spanish and Qatari communities.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Renedo Zalba emphasized the countries’ shared interest in peace and sustainable development. He quoted Spanish poet Antonio Machado to underline the importance of creating progress through continued action. Spain, he said, looks forward to strengthening cooperation with Qatar across diplomacy, business, culture and sport.
