Qatari businessmen have expressed keen interest to explore investment opportunities available in the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire’s agriculture, mining, tourism, and real estate sectors, according to Qatar Chamber official vice chairman Mohamed bin Towar al-Kuwari.
Al-Kuwari made the statement during a recent business meeting with State Secretary to the Prime Minister in charge of Private Investment Promotion Emmanuel Essis and Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ivory Coast chairman Faman Tourih.
The meeting focused on ways of enhancing economic and trade relations between Qatar and Cote d’Ivoire and the establishment of business alliances and partnerships between Qatari and Ivorian businessmen.
Addressing the attendees, al-Kuwari said both countries enjoy “strong ties” and “share joint desire” to elevate relations to higher standards, especially in the economic and trade sectors.
Al-Kuwari said the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Cote d’Ivoire last year established a roadmap to both countries’ relations at various fields, especially in the economic and investment opportunities.
He also lauded the ongoing visit of Cote d’Ivoire President Alassane Ouattara to Qatar, saying the visit “will push forward both countries’ distinguished relations.” He also stressed Qatar Chamber’s keenness to bolster co-operation with the Ivorian Federation of Chambers, noting that “it will help deepen relations between both countries’ businessmen.”
Essis said both Qatar and Cote d’Ivoire “enjoy distinct relations,” and expressed hope that economic and trade co-operation between both countries “would grow to higher levels.”
He said “the Ivorian economy is open” and offers investment incentives for foreign investors such as free remittance and VAT exemption, as well as custom and taxes incentives for investors extended to 15 years.
Essis noted that Cote d’Ivoire saw significant economic reforms and is leading other African countries that witnessed rapid economic development. Tourih added that Cote d’Ivoire is interested to bring in investments from Qatari businessmen.
Ouattara, in a speech delivered before officials of Qatar Chamber and Qatari Businessmen Association, encouraged Qatari businessmen to invest in his country and benefit from the opportunities it offers in the agricultural, industrial, and real estate sector.
He said the discussions held with businessmen from both sides “will open the door for further economic co-operation in the future.”
Qatar Chamber official vice chairman Mohamed bin Towar al-Kuwari hands over a token of recognition to Republic of Cote d’Ivoire’s State Secretary to the Prime Minister in charge of Private Investment Promotion, Emmanuel Essis in the presence of Chamber of Commerce of Ivory Coast chairman Faman Tourih and other dignitaries.
