Qatar and South Africa sign deals
Date
5/20/2016 8:06:49 AM
(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani hold talks with South African President Jacob Zuma at the Emiri Diwan yesterday.
DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held official talks with visiting South African President Jacob Zuma at the Emiri Diwan yesterday.
Both leaders also witnessed the signing of agreements for cooperation in defence, police and the field of arts, culture and heritage.
During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance relations in various fields, especially in trade, economy and investment. They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common concern, particularly the latest developments related to the Palestinian cause.
The two sides affirmed their position in support of the Palestinian people to restore their legitimate national rights, and stressed the need to intensify international efforts to realise lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.
They asserted that a lasting peace in the region can be achieved only by ending the Israeli occupation of Arab territories and establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with relevant international resolutions and the Arab peace initiative. Senior Qatari officials and President Zuma’s delegation were present.
President Zuma, meanwhile, urged Qatari businessmen to take advantage of investment opportunities in his country which is preparing to establish development projects in various sectors. Addressing a special meeting organised by Qatari Businessmen Association, he praised efforts of a group of Qatari companies investing in his country and encouraged other Qatari firms to follow suit.
He said his country offers an ideal business climate for Qatari businessmen to launch trade and investment activities in South Africa in particular, and West Africa in general.
Joint networking between Qatari businessmen and their counterparts in South Africa will help identify huge investment opportunities in both countries, he said, noting that the signing of an agreement between both to avoid double taxation and tax evasion was one of the most important confidence-building measures that will enhance trade between the two countries.
President Zuma said both countries have maintained very strong political and economic ties for more than 22 years, noting that bilateral and strategic relations have been strengthened and taken to a higher level through annual consultations. This organised mechanism would enhance and strengthen relations, he added.
Trade exchange between the two countries is growing, he said, pointing to efforts under way to increase South Africa’s exports to Qatar.
President Zuma identified areas for cooperation such as petrochemical and agricultural sectors, mining and infrastructure development, and retail industry and said South Africa offers businessmen attractive investment environment as it has established a unified centre to complete all procedures related to the entry of investment.
Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman, QBA, described Qatari -South African relations as ‘firm’ and ‘distinguished’, referring to various levels of cooperation in many sectors led by petroleum exports.
He said QBA is keen to provide all necessary facilities for South African businessmen who seek partnerships or investment opportunities in Qatar.
South African Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies, said trade relations between both countries have seen remarkable progress.
He said South African investments in Qatar have risen steadily, mostly in the LNG, infrastructure and construction sector.
Qatar Airways flights to South Africa has enhanced communication between the two countries, especially in the tourism sector, he added.
Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup opens prospects for exchanging experiences between the two sides and would involve many South African companies in various projects, he said, stressing the readiness of South African companies to participate in the field.
The Peninsula