H E Juha Mustone
Qatar’s leadership and crisis management during this exceptional situation have been truly commendable. Finland continues to call for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic solutions. We express our sincere appreciation to the Qatari authorities for their efforts to safeguard residents and for ensuring the safe return of visiting tourists.
The Republic of Finland and the Finnish Embassy in Doha have followed the recent escalation of the security situation in the wider Middle East with grave concern. The foreign policy leadership of Finland has repeatedly expressed strong support and solidarity with the State of Qatar during this challenging time.
When the escalation began on 28 February, Finland noted with concern that the situation in the Middle East was continuing to spiral. Even those working tirelessly for dialogue and a diplomatic path forward are now being targeted. Three weeks on, the call for de-escalation and to protect civilian lives across the region remains crucial.
On 5 March, in a phone call to His Highness the Amir of Qatar, the President of Finland voiced Finland’s strong condemnation of Iran’s attacks, calling them an irresponsible widening of the conflict into countries that have consistently advocated for diplomacy and peaceful coexistence. President Alexander Stubb reaffirmed Finland’s full solidarity with Qatar in all measures it takes to safeguard its sovereignty and security. He also commended Qatar’s longstanding commitment to peacemaking and its vital efforts to promote international stability and dialogue.
Finland, as a Member State in the European Union partook to the 5 March GCC-EU Ministerial Meeting, where the EU reaffirmed its solidarity with the countries of the GCC. The Ministers emphasized their shared commitment to regional stability, called for protection of civilians and full respect of international and humanitarian law, and the obligation to abide by the principles of the United Nations Charter. They also highlighted that the security and stability of the Gulf is vital not only for the region but for the stability of the global economy, intrinsically linked to European and global security.
Qatar has demonstrated exceptional commitment to safeguarding all residents and foreign nationals. The Embassy of Finland in Doha has engaged with Qatari officials to assist the Finnish community and travelers stranded in Qatar during these exceptional times.
Cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Qatar Tourism, Qatar Airways and other institutions has been instrumental in ensuring security of residents and safe travel of stranded passengers. With the dedicated help of local authorities and companies, we were able to help more than 120 Finns in catching their flights from Doha, and more than 70 Finns to travel by bus to Riyadh and onward by air from Saudi Arabia to Europe. The Qatari authorities’ responsiveness and goodwill have been invaluable. The collaborative spirit has not only helped us assist the Finnish community today but also reinforces our confidence in the strength of our partnership moving forward. In times of uncertainty, such cooperation shows what we can achieve together. We remain hopeful that continued dialogue and shared commitment to stability will lead to calmer days ahead for the whole region.
Finnish companies operating in Qatar — including Nokia and many others — also continue to stand with Qatar, maintaining their partnerships and supporting the country’s resilience and long-term development.
Their presence reflects the deep economic and technological ties that link our countries. We greatly value our partnership with the State of Qatar and other Qatari partners and look forward to deepening our collaboration as we move forward.
Lastly, I wish to convey Finland’s deep sympathy with Qatar and Türkiye following the fatal helicopter crash of 22 March. I extend heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and Finland’s solidarity with both nations as they mourn this tragic loss. I also offer my best wishes to the people of Qatar for continued safety, stability, and prosperity as they return from Eid Al Fitr celebrations.
