Courtesy of prezydent.pl

The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, was in Warsaw recently for a meeting with the Polish head of state, President Bronisław Komorowski. The two leaders signed agreements related to tourism, trade and economics.

Mr Komorowski and the Emir of Qatar plan to establish a Polish-Qatar Business Council between the Polish National Chamber of Commerce and the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI), according to the press office of the president.

The Emir of Qatar also met with Bogdan Borusewicz, the speaker of the Polish Senate. They reviewed bilateral ties and issues of mutual interest.

During an official dinner at the Presidential Palace, Mr Komorowski pointed out the historical significance of the dining room. He said it was famous for its round table, from which the 1989 round-table negotiations took their name. These negotiations, which the government held with the banned Solidarity trade union and other opposition groups, led to an election that was won resoundingly by Lech Wałęsa's Solidarity, thus ending communist rule in Poland.

The Emir of Qatar told Mr Komorowski that even before his visit to Poland 10 years ago, he had been full of admiration for Poland during the period of the Solidarity movement's rise to power. He said that his country is seeking to deepen cooperation with Poland.

“The state of Qatar believes that dialogue between nations is the best way to extend peace, security and stability. Through dialogue, the world will avoid the danger of war and hostility," said the Emir of Qatar.

He also expressed his admiration for the way in which Poland coped with the 2008-2009 economic crisis. “We admire the action that Poland defended its economy, which is proof of good management and foresight,” he said.

The Emir assured Mr Komorowski that Qatar is open to all projects that could lead to increased prosperity in both countries. He added that his country is ready to implement an agreement signed with Poland in 2009 that will see Qatargas supply liquified natural gas to Polish fuel company PGNiG. The Qatari company will wait until the Polish side has completed the technical preparations necessary for the deal to go ahead.

Veronika Joy