Qatar

Baku / Information Office / June 16  

HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Azerbaijan Faisal bin Abdullah Al Hanzab commended the depth and distinction of bilateral relations between Doha and Baku.

In an interview with Eurasia Diary, HE the Ambassador said that there is a great mutual desire from the leadership of the two countries to develop and strengthen bilateral relations in all fields, especially in the economic, commercial and investment aspects, noting the establishment of the Joint Economic, Trade and Technical Commission between the Government of the State of Qatar and the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan to explore existing opportunities and hold regular meetings to achieve the set goals.

"We believe that this desire will end with the realization of common interests and the increase of trade and investment turnover between the countries. In particular, both countries are trying to diversify their economies which largely based on the oil and gas industry, and prices in this area cannot always be controlled by the international situation," HE Al Hanzab added.

"Diplomatic relations between the State of Qatar and the Republic of Azerbaijan were established in 1994. These relations are based on the friendly relations of both countries, based on the principles and goals of strengthening international peace and stability and common interests as an active member of the UN and the international community." HE the Ambassador noted.

On the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, HE the Ambassador said that the pandemic has had a great impact on all countries of the world and aspects of life as it has great repercussions on the global economy, and drained the resources of governments in light of the decline in economic growth and the decline in oil prices due to the lack of demand, therefore, its effects are prohibitive on most sectors, especially aviation and tourism.

He said that the State of Qatar, as most of the countries of the world, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and has tightened precautionary measures with the provision of distinguished medical care. He pointed out that the State has adopted a strategic plan to contain the virus, focusing on tracking contacts with patients and isolating them, conducting tests and providing the necessary treatment within the process of breaking the chain of transmission of the disease, which helped protect lives and lower death rates compared to other countries of the world.

HE Al Hanzab pointed out that the State of Qatar has sent urgent medical assistance to many brotherly and friendly countries, out of its international responsibility and in support of joint efforts to counter the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, pointing to the remarkable efforts of the Government of Azerbaijan to support countries and international organizations and also provide humanitarian assistance to more than 13 countries around the world, in addition to the financial donation to the World Health Organization.

HE Faisal bin Abdullah Al Hanzab said, "Azerbaijan is an ancient country where different cultures and civilizations meet, with a completely different geographical position. Also, the fact that the population of Azerbaijan throughout the country, as well as those who live here live in peace and stability, is one of the main indicators in attracting tourists, in addition to the great potential of the country in terms of tourism infrastructure and logistics."

"I think that after the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic are eliminated and the world gets rid of it, Azerbaijan will pay more attention to the tourism sector, given the diversity of nature, geographical location, and favorable conditions, which is an important factor for tourism development," HE the Ambassador added.