Guyana’s embassy in Qatar marked the country’s 60th Independence Anniversary with an official celebration at LuLu Abu Sidra Mall in Doha on Tuesday.
Guyana’s President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali presided over the ceremony and delivered the keynote address.
The celebration brought together Mohamed bin Hamad Holding chairman HE Sheikh Jasim bin Mohamed bin Hamad al-Thani, Assistant Undersecretary for Industrial Affairs and Business Development at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Saleh Majid al-Khulaifi, distinguished guests, members of the diplomatic corps, government representatives, business leaders, members of the Guyanese community, and friends of Guyana in Qatar to mark six decades of independence and showcase Guyana’s growing presence, achievements and opportunities on the global stage.
Guyana’s ambassador to Qatar Safraaz Shadood addressed the audience with a welcome and introduction to the evening’s theme.
The programme featured the 60th anniversary cake cutting, highlighting pillars of Guyana’s national identity and international engagement, including entrepreneurship, art and culture, education and literature, and partnerships.
It included the official launch of Umami in Qatar, a Guyanese sauce brand whose products are expected to be available through LuLu Hypermarket stores.
The celebration also featured the launch of a children’s book series from Salah Publishing by Guyanese author Julia Theresa Kanhai, with editions translated into Arabic and Malayalam.
A Guyanese art and cultural exhibition opened as part of the programme, presenting works that highlighted the country’s heritage, cultural diversity, natural beauty and distinctive environment.
The exhibition will remain open until September 12, offering members of the public, the diplomatic community, and friends of Guyana an opportunity to experience Guyana’s artistic and cultural heritage.
The Doha event forms part of Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee year, commemorating six decades of independence, while looking toward a future of greater co-operation, innovation, opportunity and international engagement.