The State of Qatar is keen to support all efforts aimed at promoting civilized and cultural openness between people, said Embassy of Qatar to the Philippines Chargé d'Affaires a.i Abdullah bin Salem Al-Khawar.
At a celebration marking the foundation of the State by its First Ruler Sheik Jassim Bin Mohammed Bin Thani, the Qatari envoy expressed that the said efforts attach great importance to Qatar's developing relations to other countries and regional and international organizations.
The mediation of the State of Qatar in Sudan, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Chad and others, has also created path towards peace, stability and development, CDA Al-Khawar said.
He commended the ties of Philippines and Qatar who celebrated their 40th anniversary of bilateral relations last year.
The cooperation between the two nations has opened investment opportunities, thus, resulting in the expansion of trade exchange and frequent mutual visits both in government and in private sectors.
This also led to the conclusion of many joint Agreements and Memorandums of Understanding.
"The State of Qatar greatly appreciates the role of the Filipino workers in the renaissance and development of the nation," Al-Khawar said.
Furthermore, Qatar aims to further intensify its ties with the Philippines under the administration of President Bongbong Marcos. Currently, Qatar is host to more than 300,000 overseas Filipino workers.
This year's Qatar National Day included 4,500 accompanying cultural and heritage activities. Among which is the Katara 12th Traditional Festival, an annual show that introduces the Qatari maritime heritage. Participants are the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the State of Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, the Republic of Iraq, the Yemen Arab Republic, the Republic of Türkiye, and the State of India, the Federal Republic of Tanzania.
"Qatar National Day is a great occasion where the people of Qatar show cohesion, solidarity and unity, in meanings of love for homeland, loyalty to ancestors and fathers and their unforgettable sacrifices," Al-Khawar said.
The celebration comes in connection with the country's hosting of the World Cup FIFA Qatar 2022 that began on 11 November and concluded on 18 December.
"On this occasion, I am honored to extend my most sincere congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar — May Allah protect him —, the Father Amir, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani — May Allah protect him — to His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Amir of the State of Qatar, and to His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of the State of Qatar," Al-Khawar noted.
He also extended his warm congratulations to the Qatari people and to all the residents in the State of Qatar. He wishes Allah, their Almighty, to bless and perpetuate them with good health, security, stability and further progress.
