Germany, which seeks to replace supplies of Russian energy resources, risks being trapped by Qatar, as shown by the emirate’s “threats” due to the corruption scandal in the European Parliament, writes the German newspaper Die Welt.
As the newspaper notes, the energy crisis has given new strength to the Gulf countries, including Qatar, which is the largest exporter of liquefied natural gas. European politicians have travelled extensively to the region this year to negotiate contracts for the resources.
However, Europe, which is keen to reduce Russia’s share of energy supplies, now seems to be “out of the fire and into the abyss”, Die Welt states. After the opening of an investigation into the corruption case against former deputy European Parliament speaker Eva Kaili in connection with the World Cup in Qatar, the EP tried to ban Qatari lobbyists from entering the country during the investigation. The emirate has since shown, “in an unpleasant manner”, that it is fully aware of the power it wields. For example, a Qatari diplomat called the attempt to suspend Doha’s cooperation with the European Parliament “discriminatory” and warned that such a move could have a “negative” impact on relations and gas supplies.
“The small emirate is thus blatantly threatening Europe to cut off the gas tap,” Die Welt claims.
As the publication reminds us, German companies have only recently signed contracts with Qatar to supply two million tonnes of LNG from 2026, so “the German government should think twice before making any statements or decisions that could anger the sheikhs”.
Early December, Belgian police and prosecutors conducted several detentions and searches in Brussels, the seat of the European Parliament, due to an investigation into suspected corruption. In particular, the police detained the Vice-President of the European Parliament, Eva Kailly, and her partner. The case concerns the possible receipt of “large monetary rewards” and “expensive gifts” for supporting the bid of Qatar, which was preparing to host the World Cup. Belgian investigators seized more than €1.5 million in cash and valuable gifts from the suspects. Kylie was expelled from her political party in her home country and also lost her position in the European Parliament.
The Financial Times reported, citing a senior Qatari diplomat, that EU action over the corruption scandal surrounding the European Parliament could “negatively impact” global energy security cooperation between Brussels and Doha. At the same time, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck has previously said that issues of suspected corruption in the European Parliament, where Qatar may be involved, and the purchase of gas from the country should be separated.
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