Cultural diplomacy key to strengthening Qatar-Argentina ties

DOHA: Cultural diplomacy is one of the most effective ways to bring nations closer and foster lasting understanding beyond politics and trade, said Ambassador of Argentina to Qatar, H E Guillermo L Nicolas.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 3rd Edition of the Arts, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy Exhibition, held on Thursday at the Embassy of Argentina in Doha as part of the Qatar-Argentina 2025 Year of Culture, Ambassador Nicolas highlighted the vital role of culture in connecting people and deepening bilateral relations.

“Cultural diplomacy should be one of the main goals of our work abroad,” he said. “Usually, when we talk about relations between two countries, we think immediately of political or commercial ties. But cultural diplomacy is probably the best way not only to understand other countries but also to create a network of understanding that helps develop other aspects of our relationship.”

The envoy noted that Qatar and Argentina share several cultural similarities despite their geographical distance. “When you see, for example, our traditional dresses, the love for horses, and the strong sense of family, you realise that we are much closer than we believe,” he said. “Culture allows people to connect; it’s one of the main tools we have to strengthen relationships.”

H E Guillermo L Nicolas, Ambassador of Argentina to Qatar.

Ambassador Nicolas praised Qatar’s growing influence on the global cultural scene, especially in recent years. “Qatar has achieved a wonderful position in the cultural world, particularly during the World Cup. Even though sport is not purely a cultural activity, I believe it is part of our traditions,” he said, adding that before his posting, he had not realised how significant Qatar’s cultural presence had become internationally.

The Qatar-Argentina 2025 Year of Culture, the 14th edition of Qatar Museums’ cultural exchange initiative, aims to showcase the rich heritage of both nations through a year-long programme of exhibitions, artistic collaborations, and cultural exchanges. Ambassador Nicolas noted that the initiative has provided a platform for both countries to highlight their creative talent and traditions.

“This cultural year allows us to show Qatari artistic expressions in Argentina, which have been welcomed in an amazing way and to bring Argentinian art and culture to Doha,” he said. “We had an incredible connection between our peoples during the World Cup, when around 45,000 Argentinians visited Qatar. That experience inspired us to continue strengthening this relationship.”

The latest exhibition, organized in collaboration with Art, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy, features artworks representing the cultures of Qatar and Argentina, created by diplomats’ spouses and artists. “This event is a good opportunity to show what people are doing creatively, and at the same time to display elements of our shared cultural heritage,” Ambassador Nicolas said.

Looking ahead, he said Qatar and Argentina enjoy strong relations across political, economic, and cultural domains. “We have a very good relationship between both countries: politically, economically, and now, of course, culturally. This year is another milestone in that journey,” he said.

The Ambassador added that both sides are working to expand cooperation further, with 23 agreements already signed and about 20 more under negotiation, covering various areas of mutual interest. “We are working every day, step by step, to strengthen this relationship,” he said. “There are a lot of things to do, and we are really keen to do that.”