Ambassador of Canada to Qatar Stefanie McCollum asserted that Qatar is a major partner for her country in the region and at the global level. The ambassador stressed that the two countries have distinguished relations based on mutual respect aimed at achieving a positive impact in the world, especially during difficult times, adding that Qatar and Canada have enjoyed uninterrupted diplomatic relations for 46 years.
The envoy said in a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA) that Qatar and Canada collaboration on the Group of Friends of Solidarity for Global Health Security is one recent example in a long-standing and positive relationship. The ties at the popular level between the two countries support this stable relationship based on mutual respect and co-operation towards achieving common goals, she added.
“Our dynamic Canadian expatriate community is very active in Qatar and helps to advance our mutual interests and strengthen trade and investment ties. During the next phase of our bilateral relations, we would like to continue to build stronger linkages in the fields of agriculture, education and life sciences, where Canadian capabilities and expertise can be deployed to support Qatar’s efforts for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar National Vision 2030, the North Field Expansion, and other initiatives of national importance,” he noted. 
Ambassador McCollum congratulated His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the citizens and the people of Qatar on this National Day. On this occasion, the envoy praised the great developments in Qatar. 
“While Qatar has faced a few challenging years because of the continued blockade and now the Covid-19 pandemic, I was very encouraged by the Qatari government’s resolve and determination in pursuing various initiatives and reforms. The examples are numerous, and include: commitment to implement and enforce labour reforms; the pledge to undertake the Shura Council elections in October 2021; being on schedule for 2022 FIFA World Cup and playing a key mediating role to bring peace to Afghanistan.”
The global leadership that Qatar also led during the Covid-19 pandemic in providing humanitarian support and assistance in repatriating hundreds of thousands of stranded individuals, including thousands of Canadians, are all examples of Qatari efforts in various fields, the envoy added. Regarding Qatar’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, she commended the economic stimulus package by Qatar to support the private sector while also spending on health, education, and major infrastructure projects.
Ambassador McCollum said: “Our two countries are part of the Group of Friends of Solidarity for Global Health Security that was created to look at how the international community can work together to stem the flow of the pandemic and ensure stability and safety for citizens. The Group’s financial commitment will help with Covid-19 vaccine development and its timely delivery, particularly in vulnerable countries.”