Guyana is keen on enhancing partnerships with experienced oil producers such as Qatar. So said President David Granger as he accepted the letters of credence, accrediting Non-Resident Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Ahmed Ibrahim Abdulla Al-Abdulla.
The Head of State said that he is confident that the appointment of Al-Abdulla will provide opportunities for fruitful discussions and exchanges in the oil and gas sectors of both countries.
Guyana and Qatar have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties 23 years ago, on 23 August 1996.
President Granger, during the ceremony this morning, spoke of the relationship shared between the two nations. He said, “Our relationship is predicated on mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, cooperation for mutual benefit, respect for treaties and international law and the maintenance of regional peace and security.”
President Granger said also, that Guyana and Qatar further strengthened their bond of friendship with the signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement last month, which will pave the way for future cooperation in investment, enhanced trade, air travel and the movement of people. Guyana, he said, welcomes this important milestone and remains committed to working with the Government of Qatar to enhance air connectivity in an effort to link the Caribbean and the Middle East.
“I wish to convey Guyana’s interest in deepening cooperation with Qatar in trade, capacity building, and education. I also wish to suggest that new fields of cooperation in energy and tourism be explored. Guyana is keen on enhancing partnerships with experienced oil producers such as Qatar. I am confident that your appointment as Ambassador will provide opportunities for fruitful discussions and exchanges in the oil and gas sectors of both our countries,” the President said.
Qatar is a small Middle Eastern nation of fewer than 3 million people. With a small population and a wealth of oil – over 25.2 billion barrels in proven reserves – Qatar has the highest GDP per capita of any country in the world, at $128,647. Oil revenue helps finance public works and services in the country. Petroleum accounted for over 80% of Qatar’s $52.3 billion in exports in 2017.
