In an exclusive interview with GOLD magazine, Qatari Ambassador Yousef Sultan Laram highlighted the longstanding relationship between Cyprus and Qatar and noted that the message from both countries is clear: this relationship is comprehensive, evolving and anchored in trust.
Cyprus and Qatar have drawn up similar strategic national visions, which highlight common ground in sectors such as technology, sustainable infrastructure, education and energy but Cyprus-Qatar relations go much deeper, encompassing mutual respect and broader mutual interests. "Both countries respect sovereignty, peace and multilateralism," said Ambassador Yousef Sultan Laram, "and this shared worldview makes it easier to foster deep, meaningful partnerships. We are small countries with big ambitions. When you have shared values and open channels of communication, anything is possible”.
Speaking to GOLD over an Arabic coffee at his country’s impressive embassy in Nicosia, Ambassador Laram noted that Cyprus-Qatar relations have taken significant steps in the 21st century, with Cyprus opening an embassy in Doha in 2004, and Qatar opening its embassy in Nicosia in 2007. More recently, mutual high-level official visits have taken place: President Nikos Christodoulides visited Qatar in November 2023, while the Amir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, reciprocated by coming to the island in May 2024.
Cypriot companies involved in 2022 World Cup preparations
“His Highness, the Amir of Qatar, and the President of Cyprus, are looking to increase the numbers as regards investment, trade and tourism,” the Ambassador said, noting that Cypriot companies had been involved in the country’s massive $220 billion investment in infrastructure projects ahead of the 2022 World Cup, particularly in the construction sector, where seven new stadiums, a new Doha Metro system, hotels and roads were built.
Ambassador Laram also drew attention to other areas in which Cyprus and Qatar bear strong similarities: “Like Cyprus, the country is very safe. And we share a focus on technology and fintech. So, I think we have the tools and the entities to help Qataris and non-Qataris to invest there.”
Qatar’s free zones, advanced logistics networks (including Hamad International Airport and Hamad Port) and regulatory reforms make it an attractive destination for Cypriot investors, the Ambassador explained, adding that the country’s emphasis on safety, legal transparency and international arbitration further enhances its appeal.
A relationship not limited to state-level agreements
Ambassador Laram also noted that the strengthening of economic ties is not limited to state-level agreements. Qatar and Cyprus are also working to deepen business-to-business engagement. The Cyprus-Qatar Business Association continues to play an active role in promoting trade links, while the Qatar Financial Centre offers foreign investors a platform to enter the Qatari market with ease.
A delegation from the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCCI) visited Doha recently, with the support of both governments. Plans include a high-level delegation from the trade and industry sector, including businesspersons and industrialists, a bilateral business forum and targeted matchmaking events for entrepreneurs in innovation, energy, healthcare and more.
“The goal is to create a comprehensive ecosystem of collaboration,” said the Ambassador. “Whether it's chambers of commerce, business associations or educational institutions, we are all moving in the same direction.”
One of the Embassy’s priorities is to promote Qatar in Cyprus and Cyprus in Qatar, with efforts focused on bringing people, businesses and the two governments together.
Qatar Airways currently operates daily flights between Doha and Larnaca and their frequency will soon to be expanded to 10 weekly flights. This increase in connectivity is expected to bolster not just tourism but also the movement of entrepreneurs, investors and students between the two countries.
Energy and shipping significant areas of collaboration
One of the most significant areas of collaboration between Cyprus and Qatar is, of course, energy. QatarEnergy, in partnership with ExxonMobil, is engaged in exploration activities in Blocks 5 and 10 of Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) but, as the Ambassador stressed, “Our cooperation in energy goes beyond exploration. There’s potential in LNG, renewables and broader energy infrastructure. QatarEnergy sees this as a long-term investment.”
He also highlighted the growing relations between the two countries in the shipping sector, noting that, given Cyprus’ status as a global shipping hub and Qatar’s strategic location on the Arabian Peninsula, maritime cooperation is another natural fit. During her recent visit to Doha, Marina Hadjimanolis, Cyprus’ Deputy Minister of Shipping, agreed to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding on maritime cooperation with her Qatari counterpart, while the Qatari Minister of Transport has been invited to attend the biennial Maritime Cyprus shipping conference in October.
“Both countries want to become regional hubs – Qatar for Asia and the Gulf, and Cyprus for Europe and the Mediterranean. Maritime collaboration is key to this shared vision,” the Ambassador said.
Both countries value education and culture
Ambassador Laram also emphasised the importance that Cyprus and Qatar place on education and culture, areas in which relations are also expanding.
Following a meeting between Cyprus' First Lady, Philippa Karsera Christodoulides, and the Chair of the Qatar Foundation, Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, initiatives are now underway to foster academic and cultural exchanges. Scholarships for Cypriot students to study in Qatar are already available and institutional links are being built between universities in both countries.
A Cypriot delegation from the Faculty of Economics and Management at the University of Cyprus visited the State of Qatar in May of this year, meeting with officials from the higher education sector and economic policy field.
“Education is not just about numbers. It’s about shaping minds and fostering long-term understanding,” the Ambassador said.
Tourism as another growth area for Qatar and Cyprus
Tourism is another growth area, he noted. “Qatar sees Cyprus as a key Mediterranean destination and is encouraging Qatari tourists to explore the island’s beaches, heritage and gastronomy.” At the same time, the Embassy’s goal is to promote Qatar – now internationally recognised post-World Cup for its hospitality and infrastructure – as a compelling destination for Cypriot travellers.
“There’s so much untapped potential and we are working closely with stakeholders to promote both countries more effectively,” he said. Plans are also underway to encourage Qatari investment in Cypriot tourism infrastructure, including hotels and resorts. The Qatar Investment Authority – the country’s sovereign wealth fund – held discussions with Cypriot partners following the Amir’s visit last year and has signalled strong interest in the sector.
Qatar maintains a principled, neutral stance on the Cyprus isssue
On the longstanding Cyprus issue, Qatar maintains a principled, neutral stance, emphasising the need for mediation and dialogue. The Ambassador reiterated Qatar’s support for UN-led negotiations and encouraged all parties to stay committed to peaceful resolution. Qatar also backs the recent appointment of María Angela Holguín Cuéllar as the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus to oversee future negotiations and the country continues to monitor developments on the ground closely.
“New generations deserve to grow up in peace and prosperity,” he said. “Qatar is always ready to support any initiative that contributes to a just and lasting solution.”
(Photo by Antreas Christophides)
- This exclusive interview was first published in the June issue of GOLD magazine. To view it click here
