(MENAFN- Gulf Times) HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani has reaffirmed the significance of diversifying the sources of income in light of the fall in oil prices, noting that price volatility is normal and that there is no room for fear or panic, but what is needed is to take advantage of past lessons and deal with the current situation.
Chairing the Cabinet meeting at the Emiri Diwan yesterday, the Emir stressed the need to redouble efforts so as to achieve the future goals and plans that he mentioned in his address before the Advisory Council, highlighting the mutual trust between citizens and officials and the importance of enhancing it. "Citizens' trust is the most important gain," he said.
At the outset, the Emir welcomed the ministers, particularly the new ones, saying the meeting provides an opportunity to discuss conditions in general as well as the plans that were previously agreed upon with the Cabinet and in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.
The Emir said he had earlier spoken of the importance of diversifying income sources and that there is an improvement in some sectors but the State aspires for more.
He added that the State is moving ahead with the execution of its ambitious projects and plans.
"Your responsibility in light of the falling oil prices is bigger, but serving the citizens and their lifestyle should not be affected by this situation," the Emir said addressing the ministers.
The Emir said that obstacles hindering investment must be removed. Highlighting the importance of the single window system and the need to eradicate hurdles faced by domestic and foreign investors, the Emir said complaints in this regard must be addressed in a time-bound manner.
The Emir stressed the need to focus on projects that the State is committed to, noting that the economic leap in the country has led to some slack in some sectors, which, he said, is no longer acceptable. "Mistakes are natural and our officials are known for their integrity and transparency, but I stress that financial and administrative corruption, which is more dangerous as it causes sagging in institutions, cannot be tolerated."
The Emir added that there are challenges in some infrastructure, education and health projects as well as some other areas. Expressing confidence that those in charge of these sectors will work to overcome them, he called on everyone to co-operate with them.
Additionally, the Emir said focus in the coming years will be on strengthening the domestic sector, not only in the economy and security spheres but also in other fields such as education and health as well as promoting military capacity and developing the Qatari Armed Forces.
HH the Deputy Emir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani attended the meeting.
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