Doha, Qatar - The Qatar Chamber (QC) is actively fostering stronger economic ties with Russia following a significant meeting between Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, the QC Chairman, and HE Alexey Gruzdev, the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation. This pivotal discussion took place at the Chamber’s headquarters, where both sides explored avenues to bolster trade relations.
The meeting was attended by notable figures, including Rashid bin Hamad Al Athba, QC Second Vice-Chairman, and Eng. Ali bin Abdullatif Al Mesned, QC board member and Chairman of the Qatari Side at the Qatar-Russia Joint Business Council. Overall, the session emphasized collaboration and mutual investment potential.
During the discussions, Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani praised the historical and growing economic relationship between Qatar and Russia. He remarked, "The Joint Business Council can play an important role..." underscoring its potential to strengthen ties between Qatari and Russian businesses. Highlighting the extensive investments already made, he noted, "Dozens of Russian companies are investing in Qatar across various sectors, and many Qatari investments are present in Russia. Major projects exist where Russian companies can participate actively."
For his part, Alexey Gruzdev commended the established relationship between both countries and reiterated Russia's commitment to enhancing participation with the Qatari business sector. He stated, "Russia’s extensive expertise... could offer significant benefits to Qatar," particularly noting the areas of finance, infrastructure, logistics, electric transportation, oil and gas, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals.
The discussions focused on assessing the investment climate within both countries and identifying fields ripe for partnership. Gruzdev emphasized the attractiveness of Russia's market, mentioning its rich availability of investment incentives and the legal framework supporting foreign investments. "Russia is not just promising; it is ready for cooperative ventures across all industries," he stated.
Eng. Ali Al Mesnad, emphasizing the shared interests among both nations, remarked, "Qatar has the potential to serve as a hub for Russian investments in the Gulf region." He viewed the role of the Joint Business Council as instrumental for driving regular meetings and business interactions, aiming to facilitate partnerships between the two countries.
The conversation concluded with plans for future engagements, including organizing business forums intended to bring together leading business figures from both Qatar and Russia. This strategy is aimed at leveraging the capabilities and opportunities available to both sides.
The meeting exemplifies the synergy sought by Qatar and Russia as they navigate increased collaborations across various economic sectors. Joint efforts could potentially yield enhanced trade agreements, infrastructure developments, and improvements to the commercial dynamics within the region.
With significant stakes for both nations, the call for regular interactions and the establishment of business communities and forums indicates a strong will to expand their relational matrix. Observers note this initiative could mark the beginning of transformative economic relations between two nations eager to maximize potential mutual benefits.