USQBC hosts private business reception featuring Minister of Finance and QCB governor

The US-Qatar Business Council (USQBC) recently hosted a private dinner reception at its office building rooftop in Washington, DC, featuring HE the Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari and HE Sheikh Bandar bin Mohamed bin Saoud al-Thani, governor of the Qatar Central Bank. The event was attended by government and private sector officials from both the US and Qatar, USQBC members, and the wider business community. The event was sponsored by LuLu Group International/Y International USA at the Platinum Level and IBM at the Gold Level.HE al-Kuwari and HE Sheikh Bandar delivered remarks during the event, including Scott Taylor, president of USQBC; and Mohamed Barakat, USQBC managing director and treasurer of the board of directors.Al-Kuwari said: “The State of Qatar is proud of the incredible partnership with the United States that has been forged over the last 50 years. Our bilateral relationship has grown exponentially during this time and we will continue to look for ways to strengthen our robust partnership, especially in the field of investment and trade.”Taylor said: “Qatar and the United States are more than just allies, we are strategic partners, and this strong partnership directly impacts the American people. Whether it be co-operating on defensive security, collaborating on energy projects, or calling for peaceful diplomatic solutions; both countries are committed to a prosperous and secure future.”Barakat said: “The US-Qatar Business Council is committed to expanding and enhancing the already robust US-Qatar relationship. Through our market advisory services, those companies seeking to expand their business in Qatar will be well equipped with the knowledge and access they need to establish their footprint in one of the most attractive global investment destinations.” The year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and the State of Qatar. This milestone signifies the longevity and strength of the bilateral ties between the two countries. The US and Qatar have established a solid base for distinguished regional and international political relations, in addition to deep commercial, security, and cultural partnerships. In recognition of this special partnership, following the January 31 visit by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the White House, President Joe Biden designated Qatar as a “Major non-Nato ally” to the US.Dr Mohamed Althaf, director of LuLu Group International, said: “LuLu Group International/Y International USA is proud to be a Platinum Level sponsor of this event. We are committed to the growth and expansion of the US-Qatar relationship and look forward to our continued contributions to Qatar’s food security and economic growth.”LuLu Hypermarket is the leading retailer in Qatar with 17 outlets and is still growing throughout the state. LuLu’s established its presence in the US in November 2016 with a state-of-the-art export distribution centre named Y International USA Inc located in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. LuLu Hypermarkets and Y International USA have been major sources of support for Qatar during all logistic challenges and crises in the recent past, by ensuring food security, price control and uninterrupted supplies.Jonathan Adashek, chief communications officer & senior VP, Marketing and Communications, IBM said: “Aligned to Qatar National Vision 2030 of transitioning to a competitive knowledge-based economy, IBM has worked closely with its clients and partners in Qatar to capitalise on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs, and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Developing and nurturing local talent are also key pillars of IBM’s strategy in Qatar.”