The Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani lauded on Monday the Filipino community in Qatar for their unwavering support and effective contribution to the development and progress of his country.
“This is my pleasure to take this opportunity to praise the Filipino community residing in the State of Qatar and their effective contribution to the development, progress in our country,” Sheikh Tamim told President Marcos during their bilateral meeting at the Malacañan Palace Tuesday.
Qatar serves as a second home to at least 242,609 Filipinos. In 2022, remittances to the Philippines from Qatar amounted to $895.33 million.
Sheikh Tamim is currently in Manila for his state visit in the country to strengthen the bilateral ties between the Philippines and Qatar. Formal relations between the two countries span 43 years following their formal establishment on May 5, 1981.
President Marcos warmly welcomed Sheikh Tamim at the Malacañan grounds.
Sheikh Tamim extended his gratitude to President Marcos for the Filipino hospitality as they witnessed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding (MOUs) that will further strengthen the relations between the Philippines and Qatar and increase their communication.
“The Philippines is an important partner for us in many fields and especially in trade, economic cooperation. And, we aspired to improve these relations to increase communication between the private sector in both the countries,” he said.
“I thank you once again, Your Excellency and I wish your country, the Philippines a continued progress and prosperity. Thank you very much, Your Highness,” the Qatari Amir told President Marcos.
President Marcos affirmed the enhanced bilateral ties between the Philippines and Qatar as he emphasized that his discussion with Sheikh Tamim will translate to stronger collaboration in common fields of interest.
“I look forward to a fruitful and productive meeting with you today, with the hope that our discussion will open opportunities to improve and strengthen our bilateral relations at every level. At the commercial level, at the government-to-government level, at the people-to-people level,” President Marcos said.
“This is our aspiration and I think that if we come to – if we are agreed that this is the way to go, there is much potential that we can take advantage of,” the chief executive added.
The Philippines and Qatar share common interests in international and multilateral organizations. PND
