Brussels — The European Union (EU) acknowledges and appreciates Qatar’s reforms in protecting workers and improving the work environment, according to EU spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano.
He added that the EU encourages Qatar to continue its path of labor reforms.
The EU spokesperson, during an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA) also commended the successful organization of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, noting its positive impact on Qatar’s image and the dispelling of misconceptions.
Additionally, the European Union expressed its commitment to strengthening relations with Islamic countries, particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, emphasizing their tools to combat hatred against Islam in Europe.
Regarding legislation criminalizing insults to Islam in Europe, EU regional media officer for the Middle East and North Africa, Luis Miguel Bueno, mentioned legal directives from the Council of the European Union aimed at criminalizing religious-based hatred. Bueno stated that the decision is now with the parliaments of the concerned countries.
Bueno highlighted initiatives by the EU to combat Islamophobia, including the appointment of the European Commission’s Coordinator on combating anti-Muslim hatred, Marion Lalisse. Training sessions for judges and journalists have also been organized to address the issue impartially and counter disinformation about Islam in Europe.
Regarding EU-GCC relations, Bueno emphasized the potential for strengthening ties between the EU and GCC countries.
He mentioned the individual relations each EU country maintains with GCC nations and the efforts of the EU as a bloc through periodic meetings, EU delegations, and the EU Special Representative for the Gulf region, Luigi Di Maio.
In terms of the economy, Bueno stressed that the EU is a vital trade and investment partner for GCC states. He noted that a free trade agreement between the EU and GCC would enhance economic cooperation. Bueno also highlighted the mutual interest in clean energy and knowledge exchange in this field, as both GCC and EU countries aim to diversify their economies.
Bueno mentioned the EU’s rejection and denunciation of the Israeli settlement policy, which undermines peaceful negotiations and a viable solution to the Palestinian issue. He expressed the EU’s reliance on the GCC countries’ efforts to support the European initiative to revive the peace process.
Additionally, Bueno highlighted the EU’s significant financial support for the Palestinians, including financing 63 percent of UNRWA’s operations and the consensus among EU member states to support the Palestinian Authority.