Robust relations and co-operation between Qatar and Italy would play a significant role in the growth of Qatari investments in the Italian trade and economic landscape, including other major sectors, ambassador Pasquale Salzano said.
According to Salzano, Qatar not only has important investments in Italy’s property market, specifically hotels, but also in the Porta Nuova property project in Milan, the world’s leading fashion and design capital.
The project, the ambassador pointed out, is “one of the most profitable for Qatar,” as Porta Nuova is also considered as one of the main business districts in Milan.
Similarly, Salzano said Qatar also has investments in the Olbia-headquartered Air Italy through Qatar Airways, which has a 49% share in the Italian airline. He said Qatar also has investments in the Costa Smeralda Resort in Sardinia, as well as in other important and strategic companies in Italy. The presence of Qatari investments in the large Italian island is seen to spur growth in the area’s tourism sector.
On the presence of Italian companies in Qatar, the ambassador said he is “satisfied” because many leading firms are operating in most sectors in the country, such as in construction, health, food and beverage (F&B), design and architecture, and engineering sectors.
Leading Italian companies are taking part in various infrastructure projects in Qatar, particularly in Al Khor’s Al Bayt Stadium for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Salzano said.
“That stadium is extremely difficult to build because its shape represents a tent; the materials as well as the technology used for that structure is unbelievable. Skilled and world-class Italian companies were able to make the structure look like a real tent in the desert. It will be an iconic and truly impressive stadium, and I am very proud that Italian companies are part of this project,” Salzano explained.
He said Italian companies are also involved in the building of the Doha Metro project, specifically in the “artistic lighting” of the stations. Currently, the Red Line of the metro is ferrying passengers along 13 of its 18 stations.
“Our companies are also responsible for providing a specific kind of asphalt used for roads and highways in Qatar. The material used for these road networks are cost-efficient and can resist high temperatures.
“It is also very sustainable and environment-friendly because old asphalt could be reused for new roads. Italy is well-known for fashion, design, and food. But we are also well-regarded in high technology and infrastructure, as well as in the defence sector,” said Salzano.
Salzano: Proud participation.
