Members of the Qatari-French Business Association (QADRAN) reviewing the bilateral cooperation between the private sector businesses from the two countries, during a meeting held at the Qatar Chamber headquarters, yesterday.
DOHA: Bilateral relations between Qatar and France have reached to new heights. The trade and economic relations between the two friendly nations have seen a quantum leap over the past few years with the volume of two-way trade exchange witnessing a growth of 42 percent from around $1.2bn in 2017 to over $1.7bn in 2018, said Qatar Chamber Board Member Adel Abdul Rahman Al Mannai, yesterday.
This came during a meeting with a trade delegation representing the Qatari-French Business Association (QADRAN) headed by its president Alexander Zibaunt.
The meeting was attended by QC Board Member Dr Khalid bin Klefeekh Al Hajri, Huda Al Jefairi First Secretary of Qatar’s Embassy to France and many businessmen from both countries.
Regarding mutual investments, Al Mannai said that there are several Qatari investments in France in many sectors such as energy, real estate, hotels, financial services, transport, communications and sports.
He also noted that there are many French companies investing in the Qatari market.
“Over 200 French companies are working in Qatar, whether with full ownership or with Qatari partners, on key projects in oil and gas, electricity and water, transport, urban development and other fields” he added.
Al Mannai stressed that there are a wide range of opportunities for cooperation in both sides.
“The next year will be the Qatar-France Year of Culture. This reflects that both nations have successfully developed their cooperation at all aspects,” he said.
Regarding the FIFA World Cup 2022, he pointed out that France which hosted 1998 the edition has an opportunity to share its expertise and experience in organizing this international tournament.
He stressed that the event opens the door for firms of both countries to cooperate in innovative projects that depend on the best solutions and the most advanced technology.
He also underscored Qatar Chamber’s support and welcome for both countries’ companies to forge trade and economic alliances.
In turn, Alexander Zibaunt said that the French delegation’s visit to the State of Qatar aims to identify opportunities for cooperation with the Qatari side and to enhance communication between business sectors in both countries.
He gave an overview of the Cadran Association, which was founded in 2015 in France and has five founding members: Qatar National Bank, Qatar Embassy in France, BEIN Sport, Qatar Airways and Qatar Hospitality.
He pointed out that the association includes 53 members from leading French companies and Qatari companies operating in France, stressing that it represents a platform for dialogue and a link between Qatari and French companies and businessmen.
