Belgium and Qatar have reinforced their ties after a two-day visit led by the Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot in Doha, with plans for greater cooperation on conflict resolution while boosting energy and economic ties.
Taking place over 1-2 June, a Belgian delegation set off for Qatar with the aim of strengthening political dialogue, showcasing Belgian economic know-how, and discussing key humanitarian and societal challenges.
On Monday, the two countries vowed greater cooperation through a new strategic partnership, focusing on politics, economics, energy, security and humanitarian issues. The visit also laid the groundwork for sharing expertise on mediation in conflict zones.
Protecting civilians
Given Qatar’s vital role in the Middle East and beyond, the discussion covered the situation in Gaza and Doha’s efforts with the US and Egypt to reach a ceasefire, release hostages and deliver humanitarian aid.
Last week, the Belgian Foreign Minister spoke out against the situation in Gaza in an interview with Belgian magazine Humo, calling the humanitarian blockade "an absolute disgrace". However, this is not the official position of the Belgian Government.
Amid surging global security challenges, Belgian and Qatari officials discussed the conflict in eastern DR Congo, the Russia-Ukraine war (where Qatar helped facilitate the return of children), and other matters concerning Iran and Syria. Belgium wants to closely work with Qatar on mediation, and "build sustainable solutions together" in regions facing instability and war.
Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot meets Qatari Prime Minister in visit to Qatar, 1-2 June 2025. Credit: Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Both sides agreed for better cooperation in tackling global humanitarian challenges – especially protecting vulnerable populations in conflict zones. On this, a new Belgium-Qatar task force will be set up to identify areas of work in the field of humanitarian law, women’s rights and preventing sexual violence in conflict zones.
Earlier on Monday, the Minister spoke with UN agencies (UNHCR, ILO and OCHA) about progress on workers’ rights and refugee protection.
Energy & economy
The partnership also hopes to reinforce Belgium’s position in the energy sector (gas, hydrogen, etc.) and advancing sustainable energy solutions, while a double taxation agreement was also on the table. Joining forces to tackle violent extremism and using AI for improving governments and businesses efficiency, are other shared areas of work.
On Belgium's economic know-how, Minister Prévot discussed the possibility of inviting Qatari companies to Belgium, following the recent visit by 44 Belgian businesses to Qatar.
Qatar was also keen to demonstrate the work its doing on including women in entrepreneurship, with Minister Prévot having also met with the Qatar Businesswomen Association.
"The women I met are business leaders, scientists, artists, etc. All with impressive stories. We want to encourage them and connect them with Belgium’s business community, because an inclusive society is stronger, fairer and more prosperous," said Minister Prévot, who invited them to participate in a future Belgian mission.
Finally, he met with the Belgian community based in Doha – which included entrepreneurs, experts, teachers and lawyers – to hear their experiences and better understand their realities on the ground.
The ongoing Qatargate corruption scandal at the European Parliament, which is currently being investigated by Belgian authorities, did not appear to feature in talks.
