Celebrating Under the Inspiring Slogan “Together We Rise”
Edited by Anna Popper
The State of Qatar observes its National Day, also known as Founder’s Day, on 18 December every year, commemorating the unification of the nation in 1878 under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Jassim bin Muhammad bin Thani, the founder of Qatar. It occupies the Qatar Peninsula, spanning 11,571 km² on the northeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is surrounded on three sides by the serene waters of the Arabian Gulf, and bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south. Qatar has established a prominent position on the world stage, owing to its strategic location, abundant natural resources, exceptional economic and social achievements, and forward-looking leadership.
This historic day marks the birth of Qatar as a cohesive nation rooted in its enduring values of faith, unity, identity and cultural heritage. National Day celebrations embody pride in Qatari identity, a deep sense of loyalty and belonging, and an opportunity to reflect on the country’s rich legacy. Having gained independence in 1971, Qatar, a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), today stands as a symbol of progress and prosperity not only in the region but globally.
The slogan “Together We Rise” for Qatar’s 2024 National Day celebrations reflect the nation’s journey to becoming a global leader while remaining deeply connected to its cultural roots and heritage.
On the occasion of the momentous anniversary, His Excellency Mr. Abdullah bin Falah bin Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Dosari, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Hungary, hosted a diplomatic reception at the Budapest Marriott Hotel. In attendance were senior government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, business leaders, academics, cultural representatives and Qatari nationals residing in Hungary.
Announced by the speaker, the event commenced with the national anthems of Qatar and Hungary.
This was followed by a warm welcome to the audience and an address by the Ambassador of Qatar:
“Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Your Excellency the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassadors and Heads of Diplomatic Missions, Ladies and Gentlemen,
First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for joining us in celebrating our nation’s National Day, a meaningful occasion that symbolizes the unity and solidarity of the Qatari people. It is a moment of great pride for our country, reflecting our loyalty to our ancestors and their immense sacrifices, as well as our pride in the wise leadership of our Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, may God protect him.
His Highness the Emir and his visionary government have been working tirelessly to elevate the State of Qatar to international prominence in all fields. Their dedication extends to fostering a strong Qatari identity and providing access to fundamental elements necessary for a dignified life, such as free education, healthcare both within and beyond Qatar, cost-free electricity, water and housing.
On this significant day, celebrated on Hungarian soil, we emphasize the deep bonds of friendship that unite us with this historic nation, which have been strengthened by mutual visits from high-ranking officials and the signing of numerous bilateral agreements in various sectors.
These relations reached new heights following the official visit of His Excellency Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to Qatar in 2022, during which he attended the Qatar Economic Forum. This visit was reciprocated by the trip of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Budapest in August 2023.
These exchanges marked a turning point that transformed bilateral relations into a strategic partnership and opened new avenues of collaboration in areas such as investment, water management, agriculture, education, culture and energy. Notably, Qatari gas is expected to reach Hungarian markets by early 2027. Ties between our two friendly countries and peoples will undoubtedly continue to grow as the leaderships of both nations actively work to expand these relations and foster further cooperation in the years ahead.
Bilateral relations culminated with the visit of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, to Budapest, accompanied by an official delegation in the first week of December. This visit has paved the way for even closer and deeper cooperation and strategic partnership between the State of Qatar and Hungary, benefiting both of our friendly countries. The State of Qatar and Hungary share several key elements that will strengthen their cooperative ties and elevate them to new heights. One of the key factors is the importance of exchanging experiences between our two nations, which will contribute to mutual growth and progress in various fields.
As a testament to the deepening cooperation between the State of Qatar and Hungary, His Excellency Dr. Tamás Sulyok, President of Hungary, awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of Hungary to the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar. This honour recognizes Qatar’s pioneering role on both regional and international arenas, as well as its dedicated efforts to peacefully resolve armed conflicts. This award, one of Hungary’s highest distinctions, is granted by the President of the Republic to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in fields such as culture, arts, science, and public service.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The mediation efforts of the State of Qatar, in cooperation with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, successfully facilitated the release of Israeli prisoners held by Hamas. On 20 October 2023, 14 days after the start of negotiations, two Israeli-American prisoners were released. This was followed by the release of several Israeli-Hungarian prisoners. On 23 October, two more Israeli prisoners were released.
On 24 November 2023, a temporary cessation of hostilities was achieved, resulting in the exchange of 81 Israeli prisoners, including women and children in Gaza, for Palestinian prisoners, also women and children, held in Israeli prisons. Hamas also released 24 foreign nationals during this period. Qatar’s mediation efforts continued until 9 November 2023, when the State of Qatar suspended its role in facilitating talks between Hamas and Israel due to the lack of an agreement.
Qatar has stated that these efforts will resume in partnership with others if there is a serious commitment to end the brutal war and alleviate the immense suffering of civilians caused by the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the region. Qatar reaffirms its commitment to lead all efforts aimed at ending the conflict and securing the return of hostages and prisoners of war.
Qatar’s extensive experience as a mediator in conflicts in Sudan, Lebanon, Afghanistan and Chad, among others, has contributed significantly to fostering peace, stability and development not only within these nations, but also regionally and internationally. The State of Qatar firmly believes that peaceful negotiations remain the most effective way to resolve conflicts and end wars.
Furthermore, we are pleased to extend our congratulations to Hungary and its esteemed government on assuming the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2024. Hungary’s leadership is dedicated to advancing the presidency’s priorities, including fostering stronger international partnerships.
During this tenure, the first-ever summit between the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) was held under the theme “Strategic partnership for peace and prosperity” on 16 October in Brussels. The summit, co-chaired by the President of the European Council, Mr. Charles Michel, and attended by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, as President of the current session of the GCC, brought together more than 30 heads of state and prime ministers.
In his opening statement, His Highness the Emir called on European nations to recognize a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital and urged a ‘greater European role’ in achieving a two-state solution. He also emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in both the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, highlighting the Gulf Cooperation Council’s condemnation of Israeli attacks on UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon.
Qatar actively strives to engage with all cultures and civilizations worldwide and has made significant progress in this regard. It reaffirms its commitment to upholding noble human values and principles rooted in the teachings of tolerant Islamic law. Qatar places importance on fostering relations based on mutual respect and advocates the promotion of security, peace and fraternity among nations, as well as dialogue among followers of different religions.
The State of Qatar consistently calls for resolving political issues and disputes through peaceful means and direct dialogue between nations. Furthermore, it is dedicated to supporting development and stability projects in various countries, thereby underscoring its commitment to global harmony and progress.
In conclusion, I reiterate my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of you for being here today, and sincerely hope that you enjoy this occasion, which holds a special place in our hearts.
We wish everyone a New Year 2025 filled with Happiness, Love and Peace.
The official program was followed by a lavish reception in a festive atmosphere, featuring exquisite specialties from Qatari gastronomy, which the guests greatly enjoyed.
As a symbol of the enduring friendship between Qatar and Hungary, a specially made ceremonial cake, adorned with the colours of both countries, was also presented. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for friendly conversations among the participants.
Qatar National Day 2024 more than a celebration of the past – it was a testament to the nation’s promising future, driven by the resilience, unity and vision of its people for a brighter tomorrow.
Source: Embassy of the State of Qatar in Budapest
Photos from the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Budapest by Photographer Timea Drobilich, and DPA
