In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the occasion of Qatar National Day, the ambassador said the Qatari-Chinese relations have not been affected by the crisis, but increased the co-operation in energy and trade. “China has been monitoring the situation in the Gulf and saw that the stability of the GCC is in line with the common interests of the region and world.”
He said China is a friend to all Gulf states and believes in settling disputes through dialogue and welcomes Kuwait’s mediation efforts.
The ambassador said working on diversifying the economy and strengthening self-reliance is one of the most important successes that Qatar achieved in the recent years, especially after the Gulf crisis in 2017. “Qatar has decided to improve production and agriculture, promote the national product and establish major strategic projects which support its economic and social development.”
On behalf of China’s leadership, government and people, he expressed his sincere congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and the government and people for the National Day.
Chen said Qatar has and continues to make great achievements in all fields and has seen major developments in all aspects of life, expressing his appreciation to the successes made.
He said it is his fourth year to join the Qatari people in celebrating the National Day. “The celebrations reflect the joy and pride of the Qatari people for the achievements made and is an expression of their cohesion with the wise leadership.”
The ambassador said the year 2018 marks the 30th anniversary since establishing diplomatic relations between China and Qatar. “For 30 years and under the support of leaderships of both countries the friendly relations between China and Qatar have seen continuous development and fruitful results in all fields.”
Chen said the trade volume between the two countries has reached more than $10.3bn in 2017, registering a growth of nearly 200 times. “China is Qatar’s third largest trading partner and second largest source of imports and Qatar is the second largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to China.”
He said the humanitarian, cultural and tourism relations between China and Qatar have seen great development which contributes to promoting ties between both people. Chinese tourists visiting Qatar in 2017 has reached more than 45,000, increasing 26%. An agreement between China and Qatar has been signed regarding mutual exemption of visas for citizens of the both countries in July, and is due to enter into force starting from December 21, this will give the opportunity to citizens of both countries to travel at any time. (QNA)