HE the Philippines Ambassador to the State of Qatar Alan Timbayan stated that the relations between the Philippines and the State of Qatar stand on a solid foundation based on mutual respect and partnership, adding that this year, the Philippines and the State of Qatar celebrated 38 years of diplomatic relations which will continue to deepen and flourish over the coming years.
HE said, in exclusive statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA), that the two nations share a number of bilateral agreements in various sectors such as in the fields of labour, culture, health, technical vocational education and training, and investment protection, among others, pointing out that his country looks forward in sharing more bilateral agreements with the State of Qatar, particularly in the sports, energy, and trade sectors.
He also pointed out that the two nations continue to exchange high-level visits, adding that several meeting have been held this year, which solidify the gains made.
HE the Ambassador said, ‘the Philippines is thankful to the State of Qatar for hosting more than 240,000 Filipinos working and residing in the country who considers Qatar as their second home. The Filipino community continues to positively contribute to Qatars progress and development. The Philippines and the State of Qatar continues to engage in Joint labour Committee Meetings to discuss labour policies and reforms for the benefit of the Overseas Filipino Workers in the country. The opening of Qatar Visa Center in Manila is also an indication of the importance that Qatar gives to the Philippines given the strength of the relationship between the two countries.’
He stressed that the accomplishments achieved by Qatar locally and on the international stage are exceptional and truly impressive, pointing out that this year witnessed the successful opening of Al Janoub Stadium, one of the stadia built for the hosting of the World Cup in 2022, the Umm Al Houl Power Plant, to support in meeting the country's power and water demands, the National Museum of Qatar, a spectacular example of architecture that houses the unique story of Qatar, the Metro Rail, which now operates both the Red and Gold lines, as well as the successful hosting of the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championship and the 24th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup at the Khalifa International Stadium, among others.
HE highlighted how Qatar continues to meet its targets ahead of schedule and in addition to this, Qatar has successfully hosted various international sporting events this year. He explained that these experiences will definitely result in the success of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, adding that Qatar's continued progress in the energy sector ensures its breathtaking development.
HE the Ambassador conveyed his greetings to HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and the Government and people of the State of Qatar on the occasion of the country's National Day.
‘We have witnessed the resilience, solidarity, and determination of the people of the State of Qatar in overcoming the challenges faced by the country. The people have stood hand-in-hand with their government, under the wise leadership of His Highness, the Amir, which resulted in a stronger nation. It is our fervent hope that the State of Qatar continues to be blessed with more prosperity and success in all its endeavors,’ he said. (QNA)
