Japanese ambassador Satoshi Maeda lauded the growing strategic partnership between Qatar and Japan, citing increased air travel, expanding sectors such as semiconductors and batteries, and strengthened defence ties as key indicators of progress.
Speaking at a recent farewell press conference, the envoy said: “For over half a century, Japan and Qatar have cultivated a strong and enduring relationship, built on mutual trust and friendship”.
Highlighting the long-standing energy partnership, he noted that Japanese companies have been instrumental in Qatar’s LNG plant construction since 1990, while Qatar’s reliable energy supply has been crucial to Japan's economic growth. However, he stressed that the relationship has now broadened considerably.
Maeda said the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, formalised during Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit last year to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, has spurred tangible results. He noted that 2024 witnessed Japan Airlines launching direct flights between Tokyo and Doha, and Qatar Airways resuming direct flights between Osaka and Doha. He said these enhanced air links are poised to stimulate tourism and increase people-to-people exchanges.
Looking beyond tourism, Maeda underscored the promising investment opportunities in emerging sectors such as semiconductors and batteries, aligning with Japan’s aim to double inward foreign direct investment by 2030. He expressed optimism for increased collaboration in these areas.
He pointed out that the increasing defence relationship is equally significant, citing the first Qatar-Japan Military-to-Military Dialogue, held in Doha in November 2023, along with the Qatar-Japan Defence Ministerial Meeting in Singapore in June. These, including the recent visit of the Japanese Self-Defence destroyer “Murasame” to Doha Port, all underline the deepening security co-operation between the two nations.
About the progress of the strategic partnership, Maeda said: “The level of progress is exceptional. The strategic partnership is yielding tangible results across multiple sectors, demonstrating the strength and breadth of our collaboration.” He acknowledged the long-standing energy partnership as a cornerstone of the relationship, yet stressing that the current dynamism is driven by a diversification into new, high-growth areas.
About the upcoming third strategic dialogue, the envoy confirmed that Doha will host the session. While a date is yet to be set, he expressed confidence that it will take place soon. He said the dialogue will focus on building upon the strong foundation laid by Prime Minister Kishida and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in July 2023.
“Regular discussions are being held between our high officials to further strengthen relations in a wide range of areas including bilateral co-operation on regional developments, economic ties, policy dialogue on security issues, and cultural exchange,” Maeda added.
Japanese ambassador Satoshi Maeda
