Zelensky praises the economic co-operation between Qatar and Ukraine

The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the trade and economic cooperation between Qatar and his country as stating it as the basis of bilateral ties.

During his visit to the country, Zelensky said to Qatar News Agency (QNA) in an interview that despite the unprecedented situations due to the pandemic caused by Covid-19, bilateral interview trade has reached nearly $150mn. This is double as much as seen in the year 2018.

Volodymyr Zelensky said that, "This year the dynamics of trade between our countries even have been increased. However, I am convinced that the potential of our trade and economic cooperation is much higher. And we are witnessing intensification of our relations in various fields.”

He also made note on the concession for the Ukrainian port of Olvia that was won by the Qatari organisation ‘QTerminals’, adding that it is really great that such important business players are entering the Ukrainian market.

The President also affirmed the invitation from international investors to the Ukraine markets by saying, "I want to assure once again that my priority is to improve systematically the investment climate and create the most favourable conditions for foreign investors in Ukraine. For this purpose, we are reforming our legislation and implementing ambitious national programs.”

At this point, the Ukrainian president mentioned that he indicated in the month of February that the "Investment nanny" law, which offers for state support for strategic investors with investments exceeding EUR 20mn, pointing as well to the law on concessions which encourages public-private partnerships.

The Ukrainian president stressed the mega-project "Big Construction", that involves construction of roads and other infrastructure facilities, giving assurance that it is promising for every investor.

He pinpointed that Ukraine is known for its rich black soil "chornozem" across the globe, adding that his country is launching a historic land reform that establishes transparent rules in the agricultural sector.

He furthermore explained that, "Two thirds of our territory are fertile soil. And this is more than 42mn hectares of agricultural land. Therefore, we have many areas for investment in the agricultural sector: animal husbandry, processing of agricultural products, logistics infrastructure."

On the extent of progress of economic and investment projects that are held cooperatively between the two friendly countries, Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine is open for attracting foreign investments, including those from the Qatar's sovereign and investment funds, in such areas as high technology, infrastructure, finance, energy and agriculture.

Zelensky stated: "As the President of Ukraine, I do believe that it is necessary not only to attract foreign investments. My entire team and our government are actively working on providing transparent and predictable conditions for investors, as well as comfortable environment for business to work in our state."

The Ukrainian president also emphasised on new horizons for political, economic and commercial cooperation between Qatar and Ukraine, adding that Ukraine is a powerful supplier of metallurgical industry products, and a reliable supplier of agricultural and food products.

"Our country is ready to become guarantor of world food security. Ukrainian exporters just now have opportunity to implement all necessary certification procedures, primarily in compliance with the 'halal' requirements," he said.

The president underlined that Ukraine is intrigued in further expanding air communication with Qatar, adding that this step will create appropriate conditions for people to people contacts and enhancement of cooperation in the field of tourism.

He looked forward to holding the second meeting of the Joint Ukrainian-Qatari inter-governmental commission on economic, trade and technical cooperation.

Mentioning on the coordination between the State of Qatar and Ukraine on various international issues, Zelenskyy said that the two countries maintain close cooperation in the framework of international companies, especially in the context of discussion of the most pressing international issues, stressing that his country strongly counts on further support of initiatives that are vital for Ukraine by the Qatari partners.

He also highlighted that Ukraine traditionally has a high level of cooperation with the Middle East region and the Islamic world in general, emphasising that Ukraine understands the Arab states, their culture and history, and their contribution to the world civilization.

He conveyed his pleasure with the results of the 41st GCC summit, which includes the GCC reconciliation, adding that preserving of the unity and solidarity between the GCC member-states remains a guarantee of further strengthening of peace, security and stability in the Middle East region.

The president also commended the active mediation efforts of Qatar in resolving international conflicts, especially with regards to promoting peace in Afghanistan.

Speaking on the FIFA 2022 World Cup which will be hosted by Qatar as it is coming to the Middle East for the first time, and how Ukraine can contribute to this global event, the president highlighted that professional management and traditional hospitality of the State of Qatar and will guarantee a real and unique world-class experience to all the football fans worldwide.

The President also said that, "Ukraine has a significant experience of holding mass events and sports competitions. In 2012 we co-hosted the final tournament of the European Football Championship, in 2019 the final match of the UEFA Champions League took place in Kyiv. Therefore, we will be glad to share our experience with Qatari partners, in both technical and security issues. Ukrainian companies are also interested in participating in implementation of various infrastructure projects for the World Cup in Qatar.”

Talking about the efforts of the two countries in the field of confronting the Covid-19 epidemic and the international cooperation in this context, the Ukrainian president said that the pandemic has become a common reality and a real struggle and challenge for the whole world. It necessitates concerted efforts to address this problem, praising the important part played by Qatar during this pandemic.

"Qatar has already shown solidarity with its partners. I am grateful for provision of the humanitarian medical aid to Ukraine for combating the spread of Covid-19 in 2020. I consider this step as a manifestation of true friendship," he added.

The Ukraine President concluded by saying that, "We are also grateful to our Qatari partners for assistance in evacuation of Ukrainian citizens from all over the world during the most difficult pandemic periods in 2020 by means of the Qatar Airways aircraft. Ukraine also appreciates Qatar's contribution to the global efforts aimed at combating the coronavirus. Humanitarian aid, provided by Qatar to many countries around the world, demonstrates your state's strong commitment to the spirit of partnership and mutual assistance in times of trouble.”

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Economic Cooperation State of Qatar Ukraine Qatar News Agency Qatar News Qatar Day Qatar