Mexico and Qatar mark 50 years of diplomatic relations

Mexico and Qatar marked five decades of diplomatic relations with a special reception hosted by the Mexican embassy in Doha Monday.The event commemorated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of ties, which officially began on June 30, 1975.Speaking at the celebration, Mexican ambassador Guillermo Ordorica highlighted the significant growth of the bilateral relationship between the two countries – rooted in mutual respect, sustained dialogue, and shared values."On this day, June 30, fifty years ago in 1975, Mexico and Qatar officially established diplomatic relations. Since then we have gone a long way, which proved to be very promising. We are here to commemorate this friendship and also what happens behind the scenes every day,” the envoy said.He noted that the period has seen two high-level state visits, numerous ministerial meetings, and continuous rounds of consultations to explore new initiatives and foster diverse co-operation.Despite the geographical distance of more than 40,000km, Ordorica said such partnership evolved into a strong and dynamic relationship, grounded in mutual respect and a spirit of collaboration.He pointed out the visible presence of Mexican influence in Qatar’s landscape, from Mexican architecture in Education City and World Cup stadiums to sculptures and public art at Katara Cultural Village and on the Doha Metro.Ordorica added that Mexican heritage lives on in Qatar through donations of books, with the words of Mexican scholars now housed at the Qatar National Library.The reception saw the attendance of Qatari officials, including Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Protocol Department director Ambassador Ibrahim Fakhroo, Hamad Medical Corporation’s deputy chief medical officer for Surgery Services Dr Abdulla al-Ansari, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ American Affairs Department director Jassim al-Asmakh.Also present were several ambassadors from various missions in Doha, representatives from cultural and academic institutions, members of the Mexican community in Qatar, and other guests.The embassy presented special recognitions to Qatari partners whose support has strengthened ties and benefited the Mexican community. Three distinguished Mexican nationals were honoured for their contributions in the fields of sports, journalism, and gastronomy.Attendees were treated to an authentic culinary experience with traditional Mexican cuisine prepared by renowned chefs and their team at Señor Pico at Double Tree by Hilton.The embassy noted that the celebration concluded with a symbolic gesture as the Sheraton Doha Hotel and The Torch Doha were illuminated with the colours of both the Mexican and Qatari flags, symbolising the enduring friendship and shared vision that unite the two nations.