Doha: HE Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the State of Qatar Ashraf Khodjaev confirmed that the State of Qatars accession to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as a Dialogue Partner came as a result of Qatar's robust economy and visionary investment strategy which prioritizes innovation and sustainability in sectors like renewable energy, infrastructure and digital technology. In his exclusive statements to Qatar News Agency , HE the Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan said that the country fully supports Qatars accession to the SCO as a Dialogue Partner, stressing that Qatars open and balanced foreign policy promotes peace and stability globally, avoiding international or regional conflicts and disputes with neighbors. HE Khodjaev noted that the State of Qatar shares the SCO's core principles of non-alignment, openness, equality and counter-based decision-making, adding that Qatar's involvement will help achieve the SCO's goals. During the SCO Summit in July 2023, HE President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of maintaining and strengthening the SCO's role as an effective international organization addressing pressing regional issues. The SCO region offers vast economic opportunities and serves as a platform for sustainable development, contributing to approximately one-third of the global gross domestic product (GDP) in purchasing power parity, about 27 percent of foreign direct investment, and up to 20 percent of global trade, His Excellency added. HE Khodjaev pointed out that the State of Qatar, under the wise and visionary leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani has established itself as a key player regionally and internationally, particularly through its successful mediations in global disputes. His Excellency pointed out that Qatar's diplomatic approach and strategic initiatives have earned a strong reputation for promoting peace and stability in conflict-ridden areas. Uzbekistan views Qatar as a dynamic player in gl obal affairs, with its proactive foreign policy and adept mediation efforts receiving international acclaim for its support of peace in Sudan, Somalia and Afghanistan, which demonstrates its commitment to reconciliation and conflict prevention. These efforts have de-escalated tensions and paved the way for dialogue, leading to peaceful resolutions, His Excellency added. His Excellency noted that Uzbekistan values Doha's constructive role in regional and international affairs, and supports its significant mediation efforts. Recognized globally, Qatar's dedication to diplomacy and dispute resolution highlights its role as a mediator committed to global peace and security. Qatar's mediation engagements reflects its commitment to conflict resolution, making it a valuable partner in promoting peaceful coexistence worldwide. Uzbekistan and Qatar share similar positions on many regional and global issues, including the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and Afghanistan's stabilization. The strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Qatar could strengthen connectivity between Central Asia and the Gulf, setting new standards for benchmarks for diplomatic engagement and cooperation, His Excellency said. Regarding the relations between the State of Qatar and Uzbekistan, His Excellency said that the relationship between the two countries has flourished in the recent years, forming a strategic partnership focused on investment, trade and tourism. High-level visits, including the Amir of Qatar's state visit to Uzbekistan in June 2023, and the visit of HE to Qatar in October 2023 have solidified ties between the two countries. These visits resulted in multiple agreements covering several fields. Diplomatic relationship between the two countries have evolved into a strategic partnership rooted in mutual trust, enhancing stability and cooperation, and promising a bright future for bilateral cooperation and economic prosperity. With a strong foundation of mutual respect and collaboration, the two nations are poised to strengthen tie s and fostering a spirits of strategic partnership and brotherly relations, His Excellency said. HE Khodjaev explained that Uzbek-Qatari relations are developing dynamically in all directions. Indeed, a visa-free regime has been established for citizens of both countries, besides launching direct flights between Tashkent and Doha, which facilitates tourism and trade. Additionally, the Uzbek Culture Week was held at the beginning of the year in Qatar. Mutual visits and interactions in various spheres, including business circles, have intensified significantly. Furthermore, Uzbekistan and Qatar have strengthened their interaction within international organizations, and mutually supported each other's candidacies to elected bodies of the United Nations. Regarding future plans to enhance cooperation between the two sides, especially in the fields of economy, trade and investment, HE the Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan said that the flourishing relationship between Uzbekistan and Qatar promises a strategi c partnership focused on economy, trade and investment, as both countries have immense untapped potential for economic cooperation, with dynamic economies, growing business activity, and expanding foreign trade. This sets the stage for significant plans to expand investment cooperation. Uzbekistan's strategic location, rich mineral resources, and large market offer lucrative opportunities for Qatari investors. Since 2017, Uzbekistan's successful economic reforms and open policy have attracted over $60 billion in foreign investments, with the aim of doubling the GDP by 2030. Additionally, Uzbekistan ranks high in global reserves of gold, copper, tungsten, silver uranium and natural gas. The goal is to secure $120 billion for advanced processing of critical mineral, industrial projects, and the privatization of state-owned enterprises, His Excellency added. His Excellency pointed out that Qatar's robust economy, driven by diversified investments and innovation, sets a high standard. As a significant global inve stor, Qatar is interested in diversifying its investments; therefore, Uzbekistan offers many bankable projects in energy, transport infrastructure, oil and gas, chemical industries, finance, agriculture, Healthcare and education. In conclusion to his statements to QNA, HE Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the State of Qatar Ashraf Khodjaev said that the recent launch of direct flights between Doha and Tashkent by Qatar airways, operating four times a week, will further strengthen economic and trade ties. As Uzbekistan and Qatar build on recent landmark visits and agreements, the future of diplomatic relationship between the two countries looks promising, enhancing cooperation and economic prosperity for both nations. Source: Qatar News Agency
Friday, September 20, 2024