Qatari Ambassador to Korea Khalid bin Ebrahim Al Hamar gives a speech during the country's National Day event in Seoul, Monday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin

Qatari Ambassador to Korea Khalid bin Ebrahim Al Hamar expressed heartfelt gratitude and appreciation in commemorating a day that embodies unity, national pride and loyalty to Qatar's wise leadership.

"I am pleased to welcome you all and express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for your presence and participation in celebrating Qatar National Day, an occasion that carries within it the meanings of unity, pride in our nation and loyalty to the wise leadership that laid the foundations of progress and stability," Al Hamar said.

Reflecting on Qatar's journey of growth and development since its modern founding by Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani, Al Hamar highlighted the nation's significant progress.

"On this glorious day, we recall the journey of construction and development that began when Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani founded the modern State of Qatar," he said.

"The State of Qatar, with the determination of its leadership and the will of its people, has been able to achieve a comprehensive renaissance that has made it a model of leadership and stability. This achievement would not have been possible without the insightful vision and wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani."

This year's celebration holds special significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Qatar. "These relations have now reached the stage of comprehensive strategic partnership, reflecting the depth of cooperation between the two countries," Al Hamar said.

Over the past decades, the partnership between the two countries has flourished, particularly in the energy sector.

"Qatar and South Korea have close relations in the field of energy, as South Korea is one of our most prominent partners in liquefied natural gas projects. Korean companies are also actively participating in development projects in Qatar, reflecting the economic integration between the two countries," he said.

"Moreover, the two countries are working to enhance cooperation in new areas such as renewable energy from solar, wind and hydrogen, smart agriculture, health and public-private partnerships. We also pay special attention to cooperation on climate and green growth issues, in addition to the political, cultural and sports fields," he added.

While celebrating these achievements, Al Hamar expressed optimism for the future of Korea-Qatar relations.

"While appreciating these achievements, we look forward to taking our relations with the Republic of Korea to a higher level, working together to face common challenges and build a better future for our people," he said.

To highlight the strategic relationship between the two countries, the Qatari Embassy organized various events, including a forum on trade and investment, Qatar Day at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies and a photo exhibition showcasing Qatar's history, culture and economic accomplishments.