(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The number of people travelling to France from Qatar has doubled this year, with only one percent of visa applications having been refused.
The number of applications increased at least by 50 percent to 27,000 compared to 18,000 in 2013, French Ambassador Eric Chevallier told a press conference yesterday. It marked the first anniversary of the establishment of Capago Mena (visa collection centre for France).
"The figures speak for themselves and confirm the French success in terms of visa delivery in Doha.
"There is a very low percentage of refusals, about one percent. France is most probably the No. 1 country in the Schengen area with regard to the number of visas issued.
"Assessment after a year since the opening of Capago Mena is according to us very positive.
"We are constantly looking at how to make it better in terms of customer service and treatment of visa applications.
"You are most welcome in France. The Capago premises show you the diversity of French regions. We are here at the embassy and Capago at your service, especially our Qatari guests, who wish to visit France," he said.
Applications for tourist visas represent more than 80 percent of the total issued in Qatar.
France remains the most visited country in the world with more than 84 million travellers per year. There is also a steady increase of business visits that has reached 12 percent of the visas.
The French Institute in Doha and Capago have signed an agreement to promote French culture.
On December 11, the first anniversary of Capago will be marked and visa applicants will have the opportunity to see an exhibition of portraits by French photographer Stephane Delemer.
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