DOHA: The Chairman of Qatar Chamber (QC), Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, emphasized the Chamber’s commitment to strengthening economic and trade relations with Russia during the Qatar-Russia Business Forum held in Moscow on April 18, 2025. This forum took place on the sidelines of the official visit of the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to the Russian Federation.
The Chamber’s delegation included QC Second Vice Chairman Rashid bin Hamad Al Athba, and board members Eng. Ali bin Abdullatif Al Misned, Mohamed bin Ahmed Al Obaidli, and Rashid bin Nasser Al Kaabi. In his remarks at the forum, Sheikh Khalifa stated that the event represents an ideal platform to explore the best ways to enhance investment opportunities and increase the volume of economic and trade exchange between the State of Qatar and the Russian Federation.
Sheikh Khalifa highlighted the active and pivotal role played by the Qatar-Russia Joint Business Council in strengthening cooperation between the business communities of both countries. He noted that building strategic partnerships between businessmen from both sides would serve mutual interests and promote economic integration between Qatar and Russia.
“The private sector is a key pillar in advancing economic cooperation in both countries,” Sheikh Khalifa remarked, underlining the significance of private enterprises in fostering bilateral ties. He pointed out that many Russian companies are already operating in the Qatari market across various sectors such as energy, renewable energy, tourism, digital technology, agriculture, and industry.
Sheikh Khalifa affirmed that the Qatari market is characterized by an attractive investment climate, supported by modern infrastructure, encouraging incentives, and progressive laws that facilitate business operations.
Meanwhile, during a high-level discussion session titled "Cooperation in Healthcare, Tourism, and Urban Infrastructure to Support National Development Priorities" at the same forum, Visit Qatar focused on the prospects for cooperation between Qatar and Russia in the tourism sector. CEO of Visit Qatar Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi underscored the potential for enhanced tourism collaboration between the two nations.
Al Mawlawi pointed out that key enablers for increasing tourist flows from Russia to Qatar include expanding tourism offerings tailored to visitor interests, improving air connectivity between Doha and major Russian cities, and streamlining visa processes. He further elaborated on Visit Qatar's ongoing efforts to promote the country as a destination of choice.
These efforts include targeted digital marketing campaigns, strategic engagements at international travel exhibitions, and partnerships with leading tour operators and travel platforms in the Russian market. Al Mawlawi reaffirmed Visit Qatar's commitment to developing a seamless and enriching tourism experience, built upon the nation’s cultural depth, world-class infrastructure, and a year-round calendar of diverse events.
Visit Qatar's participation in the forum reinforces the role of tourism as a core pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030. This vision aims to diversify the economy and enhance the country’s position as a leading global destination.
The collaborative spirit evident in both Sheikh Khalifa's and Al Mawlawi's remarks highlights the importance of international cooperation in advancing sustainable development and fostering economic and investment partnerships between Qatar and the Russian Federation.
As Qatar continues to seek new avenues for growth and partnership, the discussions at the Qatar-Russia Business Forum mark a significant step towards deeper economic ties between the two nations. The emphasis on sectors such as tourism and energy illustrates the strategic interests both countries share, paving the way for future collaborations that could benefit both economies.
Qatar's efforts to promote itself as an attractive investment destination are increasingly resonating with foreign investors, particularly from Russia. With its modern infrastructure and supportive regulatory environment, Qatar is positioning itself as a hub for business and tourism in the region.
The Qatar-Russia Business Forum serves as a testament to the growing relationship between these two nations, showcasing the potential for increased trade, investment, and cultural exchange. As both countries navigate the complexities of the global economy, their partnership is likely to evolve, driven by mutual interests and shared goals.
In conclusion, the developments at the Qatar-Russia Business Forum signify a promising future for economic cooperation between Qatar and Russia. With a focus on strategic sectors and a commitment to enhancing bilateral ties, both nations are poised to benefit from a partnership that could yield significant dividends in the years to come.
