(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula
Doha: Yesterday marked the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Qatar.
It is a milestone in bilateral relations, said Ambassador of Ukraine to Qatar H E Andrii Kuzmenko yesterday.
He said over the past three decades, Qatar and Ukraine have worked tirelessly to strengthen their friendship and cooperation.
Ambassador Kuzmenko said in a statement to the media that Qatar and Ukraine have forged a strong and enduring partnership, one that has deepened and diversified in many fields.
“Our diplomatic relations have evolved to a robust partnership, characterized by mutual respect, shared global vision, trade and investment and cultural cooperation. Today, Qatar is an important partner for Ukraine in the Middle East, and we have worked together on a range of issues, from food, energy security, trade and investments to cultural cooperation,” he said.
The opening of the Embassy of Ukraine in Qatar in 2012 and the establishment of the Embassy of Qatar in Ukraine in 2013 have further strengthened the diplomatic ties.
“In recent years, we have seen significant progress in our economic relations. Our two countries have signed a number of agreements to boost trade and investment.
In 2020, we truly witnessed a breakthrough in the field of investment, when a concession agreement was signed between the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine, the“Administration of Sea Ports of Ukraine” and the winner of the competition for the concession of the Ukrainian port“Olvia” (Mykolaiv Region), the Qatari company QTerminals,” said the ambassador.
According to the concession agreement, the term of which is 35 years.
The Qatari company undertook to invest 3.4 billion UAH over the span of five years, by committing to the development of the Ukrainian“Olvia” port and its infrastructure. QTerminals plans to modernise the grain terminal, update cargo equipment, and improve warehouse facilities.
Despite the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, there is a growing interest from Qatari businesses in exploring opportunities in Ukraine, especially those in post-war reconstruction and development, said Ambassador Kuzmenko.
In the coming years, we hope to see a significant increase in the export of Ukrainian agricultural products to Qatar, which, potentially, can be one of the largest markets for Ukrainian grain in the Gulf region, he said.
“Both Ukraine and Qatar share common values in their long-standing commitment to peace and stability, as both countries have a goal to support development and improve food and energy security throughout the Middle East region, and beyond. That is why I do believe that the synergy of our efforts can ensure a safer, more secure and more prosperous future for all,” said Ambassador Kuzmenko.
He also anticipated that Qatar will continue its mission in“Grain from Ukraine” programme by participating in the Second International Summit for Food Security.
The Ukrainian envoy also expressed his expectation for Qatar to support in the implementation of the 'Peace Formula' proposed by President of Ukraine H E Volodymyr Zelenskyi, which should ensure lasting peace for the peoples of the whole world.
“Subsequently, we in Ukraine are interested in Qatar's active efforts to ensure global food security - step number two of the Peace Formula of our President. The above mentioned“Grain from Ukraine” initiative is just a step towards achieving global food security and we expect that the State of Qatar could contribute to the implementation of the respective step of the Formula. In addition, Ukraine is interested in participation of our Qatari friends and partners in the practical implementation of the third step of the Peace Formula, which concerns energy security,” he said.
“I am deeply convinced that the active role of the Qatari side in the consistent implementation of the mentioned formula will not only contribute to the further establishment of Qatar as an influential leader in regional and global political processes, but will also have significant added value in the context of establishing a sustainable and just peace,” he added.
Ambassador Kuzmenko also lauded the growing cultural ties between Ukraine and Qatar and said that both countries have organised numerous cultural events and activities, including art exhibitions, concerts, and movie screenings.
“These activities have helped to foster a deeper understanding of our respective cultures and traditions, and have strengthened the bonds between our peoples,” he said.
“As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, I am confident that our partnership will continue to grow and flourish in the years to come. Ukraine and Qatar share common values and interests, and our partnership, which will reach the strategic level, has the potential to create significant economic, political, and cultural benefits for both nations.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Qatari government and people for their continued support and friendship towards Ukraine. I am confident that our strong bilateral relations will continue to deepen and expand in the years ahead,” said Ambassador Kuzmenko.