Officials from Qatar and Uzbekistan chambers during the meeting.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar and Uzbekistan chambers recently held discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation, activating the Qatari-Uzbek Joint Business Council, and identifying its members and the sectors it will represent.
Qatar Chamber was represented at the meeting, held in Tashkent, by Board Member Mohamed bin Ahmed Al-Obaidli, in the presence of Ahmed Abu Nahya, Director of the Public Relations Department. The Uzbek side was headed by Jamil Maksudi, Advisor to the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan.
During the meeting, both sides discussed economic and trade relations between the two countries and ways to strengthen them, as well as key areas of cooperation and partnership between the private sectors of both countries across several industries.
They also reviewed the investment climate and incentives available in Qatar and Uzbekistan, in addition to exploring opportunities for cooperation in the halal industry.
In his remarks, Al-Obaidli stressed that Qatar and Uzbekistan enjoy strong and steadily growing relations; however, he noted that the current volume of bilateral trade remains below the aspirations of both sides.
He emphasised the important role of the private sector in enhancing trade and economic cooperation through the establishment of joint ventures and investment projects, particularly in light of the attractive investment climate and wide range of opportunities available in both markets.
He also highlighted the importance of holding bilateral meetings between business leaders from both countries to explore opportunities for cooperation and partnership in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, technology, and innovation. He noted that Qatar is well positioned to serve as a regional hub for technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and other advanced technology sectors.
In turn, Jamil Maksudi stated that Uzbekistan intends to establish an international financial center, with Islamic finance among its key priorities, which would open new opportunities for Qatari investors.
He also highlighted the wide range of investment opportunities available to Qatari investors across various sectors, noting that his country is planning to develop “New Tashkent,” a project aimed at attracting leading global companies specialising in smart city development.
He added that Qatari companies could contribute to this project, particularly given Qatar’s strong expertise in smart city development.
Maksudi further noted that innovation, the halal industry, tourism, and logistics represent key pillars for cooperation and partnership between the business communities of both countries, praising the significant progress achieved by Qatar in these fields.
The Uzbek side also delivered a presentation outlining the key features of the national economy and investment incentives. It further highlighted key opportunities in the textiles, leather, construction materials, and chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
