ffChancellor Angela Merkel praised the way economic relations between Germany and Qatar have developed. "I believe that we can still do more, but we have a very good starting point," she said after her meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in Berlin.

Not only do German companies invest in Qatar. Qatar also invests in Germany. "And all companies in which Qatar is involved very much appreciate this cooperation," said Angela Merkel. She sees Qatar primarily as a strategic investor, interested in long-term investment.

Focus on the environmental and energy sectors

With a view to future developments, the Chancellor said that she foresees close cooperation particularly in the field of environmental technologies and on renewable energies and energy-efficient construction methods. These are fields in which Germany has much to offer as a partner. Germany offers a wide range of services in the infrastructure sector.

Merkel calls for good conditions for migrant workers

The Chancellor also raised the FIFA World Cup 2022 which Qatar is to host. "I have made it abundantly clear that we would like to see good working conditions also for immigrant workers in a country as rich as Qatar." On this point, the Emir of Qatar admitted that mistakes have been made. Many problems have, however, been tackled, and changes introduced, also relating to the situation of foreign workers. Qatar is working hard to ensure that the situation improves.

Another item on the agenda was the security situation in the region as a whole, with a special focus on the terrorist militia Islamic State. The Middle East conflict and the situation in Libya and Tunisia were also discussed.

Qatar’s economic structure: In 2012 the oil and gas sector generated some 58 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). In future, planned investments worth billions in urban development, traffic and transport infrastructure and the services sector are to support economic growth. Special importance is attached to the financial services sector.

Most of Qatar’s major companies are state-owned. Qatar is still deemed to be a boom country, which has not yet fully exploited its economic potential, with highly competitive markets. The country is currently undertaking extensive infrastructure projects (road construction, drainage and sewerage systems, railways, airports and ports). In line with its position as an exporter of gas and oil, Qatar is an important player on global energy markets. The country has the world’s third largest gas reserves.