Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Russian Federation Fahad bin Mohamed al-Attiyah described the recent visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Moscow as very successful, pointing out that its has contributed to developing bilateral relations in the fields of economy, defence and investments.

The ambassador said in a TV interview the Qatari-Russian relations are very good and are constantly evolving. "Since the first visit of His Highness the Amir to Moscow in January 2016, we have achieved very great results and we have more promising prospects," he said.

"There are certain investment prospects, and we have made great efforts to strengthen trade relations between the two countries," he said adding: "We are co-ordinating our efforts closely regarding the energy market". The ambassador reiterated Qatar's keen interest in investing in the Russian economy, pointing to the emergence of new horizons that would allow Qatar to offer its capabilities to help spread Russian products in the Middle East.

He pointed out that Qatar seeks to simplify procedures to contribute to strengthening relations between businessmen in both countries, noting that Doha is committed to all international banking rules.

Qatar has become a major logistics centre, and any Russian businessman can rent a place in the free zone and benefit from the world-class infrastructure, he said noting that Hamad International Airport links Doha with 150 airports around the world.

He noted that Hamad International Port is also considered a new phase of port development, noting that it is the most modern seaport in the region and will provide the possibility of re-export of goods.

The ambassador also said that Qatar will offer many privileges to those interested in Russia and other countries to benefit from this port and the services it provides.

He said a Russian businessman could own 100% of his company's shares in areas such as healthcare, education and tourism.

He explained that Qatari businessmen inquire the Qatari embassy in Moscow about investments in Russia adding: "We try to provide them with clarifications and information on the laws, rules and information about the process of opening a bank account or establishing a company. It is very important, and the embassy is making efforts to clarify everything to them."

The ambassador said that, a few weeks ago, Qatar opened a bureau to attract tourists from Russia, pointing out that the number of Russian tourists visiting Qatar has been increasing since the decision to exempt Russian citizens from the entry visa, considering that the Russian tourist is one of the best tourists in the world.

He also explained that Qatar is focused on attracting Russian tourists by informing them of its infrastructure and advanced services, and more importantly, that the Qatari people are hospitable.

"Qatar's preparations for hosting the 2022 World Cup began on the day we submitted our bid to host the international event.

Since we won the right to host the tournament, we have done a lot and we continue our efforts," the ambassador said.

Ambassador Fahd bin Mohamed al-Attiyah noted that Qatar has hosted a number of international sports championships and is one of the few countries that participate in all international sporting events. "We have transformed sport into a special culture.

Every year we celebrate Sports Day, which is an official holiday," he said.