Malta's Ambassador Simon Pullicino Reflects on His Tenure in Qatar

Doha, Qatar Jul 26, 2026 ALN: The Ambassador of Malta Simon Pullicino, shares his final thoughts with Doha News, at the completion of his diplomatic tenure in Doha 

I wish to start by paying tribute to His Highness the Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away earlier this month. He was an exceptional statesman, who led his country through a defining period of its history, laying the foundations of a modern and progressive nation. Under his visionary leadership, Qatar emerged as a respected global actor, committed to humanitarian initiatives and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. To the people of Qatar, he was a father, distinguished by his kindness and always committed to their wellbeing and prosperity. 

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, was a transformative figure in the Gulf region. He oversaw significant economic growth and diversification, particularly in the oil and gas sectors, which propelled Qatar onto the global stage. His commitment to education and healthcare reform laid the groundwork for a knowledge-based economy, which is a key aspect of Qatar National Vision 2030. This vision aims to transform Qatar into an advanced society capable of sustainable development, with a focus on economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

From my end, I leave Qatar, impressed with the significant strides in economic competitiveness, infrastructure, sustainability, education, healthcare, and sports over the last years, reflecting its progress toward Qatar National Vision 2030 and I will carry these memories with me as I embark on my next post. 

Qatar's rapid development has made it a focal point for international events, including the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which is set to showcase the country's infrastructure and hospitality. This event is not just a sporting occasion but a significant opportunity for Qatar to demonstrate its capabilities and cultural heritage to a global audience. The investments in infrastructure, such as new stadiums, transportation systems, and hospitality facilities, are part of a broader strategy to enhance Qatar's profile as a major player in global tourism and sports.

Furthermore, Qatar has demonstrated, with consistency and conviction, that dialogue and diplomacy are not instruments of last resort but of deliberate, principled choice. Malta and Qatar share a foreign policy identity rooted in multilateralism, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and respect for the international rules-based order, values that have made cooperation between our two countries not merely cordial, but substantive. This mutual respect for diplomacy is essential in a world where conflicts often escalate due to a lack of communication and understanding.

Qatar’s role as a renowned mediator in the region stands as one of the most significant diplomatic contributions of our time. From facilitating landmark agreements, including the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, to persevering in ceasefire negotiations in Gaza when all other avenues seemed exhausted, Qatar has demonstrated that small states can exercise a moral authority that transcends geography. This ability to mediate conflicts and foster dialogue has earned Qatar a reputation as a peace broker, highlighting the potential influence of smaller nations in global affairs.

In recent years, Qatar has also played a crucial role in addressing humanitarian crises, providing aid and support to various regions affected by conflict. Its commitment to humanitarian initiatives reflects a broader understanding that stability in one region can positively impact global peace and security. As the international community faces numerous challenges, Qatar's approach to diplomacy and humanitarianism serves as a model for other nations.

Qatar’s exemplary temperament and composure in times of crises, including during recent attacks, which Malta unequivocally condemned, reflects the visionary leadership of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, whose principled stewardship of Qatar’s foreign policy continues to earn the admiration of the international community. Sheikh Tamim, who succeeded his father, has maintained and expanded upon the diplomatic legacy of his predecessor, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collaboration in addressing regional and global challenges.

As an EU Member State, Malta values Qatar as a vital partner on regional stability, and economic cooperation, and looks forward to the continued deepening of ties in trade, investment, and cultural exchange between our two open, outward-looking economies. The relationship between Malta and Qatar has evolved significantly over the years, characterized by mutual respect and shared interests. This partnership is not only beneficial for both countries but also contributes to broader regional stability in the Middle East and North Africa.

Allow me to recall that last year we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Malta-Qatar diplomatic relations, a milestone underpinned by numerous high-level visits, two rounds of political consultations, the reintroduction of direct Qatar Airways flights between Doha and Valletta, and a growing range of commercial and cultural exchanges. The Embassy of Malta is proud to have modestly contributed to this momentum. These developments have facilitated greater connectivity between our two nations, allowing for increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, which are vital for fostering understanding and cooperation.

I depart confident that the friendship between Malta and Qatar rests on solid and enduring foundations, and I thank the Government and People of Qatar for their cooperation and the warm welcome extended to me and my family throughout my tenure. The relationships built during my time here will serve as a foundation for future collaboration, and I am optimistic about the path ahead for both Malta and Qatar.

I would also like to acknowledge the small but vibrant Maltese community that has made Qatar their home and to commend them for their contribution to consolidating Malta-Qatari relations. These expatriates play a vital role in fostering cultural ties and promoting mutual understanding between our two nations. Their experiences and contributions enrich the social fabric of Qatar and strengthen the bilateral relationship.

Finally, a word of sincere thanks to Mohammed Elshamy and the Doha News team for their genuine cooperation with the Embassy throughout my posting. The role of the media in bridging cultures and facilitating dialogue cannot be overstated, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated professionals.

ا ركش، طرقىلإ وء اا (Thank you Qatar, until we meet again) 

Simon Pullicino is the outgoing Ambassador of Malta to Qatar. This article is an opinion piece and does not necessarily reflect the views of Doha News, its editorial board, or staff.