Qatari emir in Manila Tuesday for state visit

The ruler of Persian Gulf state of Qatar will arrive Tuesday on a two-day state visit, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Monday.

The DFA said the visit of Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani on the invitation of President Benigno Aquino III is the first ever visit of a Qatari emir to the country. Qatar hosts 175,000 overseas Filipino workers.

“His Highness the Emir’s visit affirms the advancement of political and economic ties between the Philippines and Qatar,” said Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto del Rosario.

“We are looking forward to discussing ways to achieve more positive growth in the realm of trade and investment and increasing opportunities for our Filipino workers,” he added.

The DFA said the Emir is scheduled to meet with Mr. Aquino and key Cabinet members to discuss ways to further enhance the relations between the two countries, especially in the areas of labor, tourism, agriculture, trade and investments.

The Philippines and Qatar have been enjoying a “vibrant and dynamic partnership for 31 years,” the DFA added.

Originally posted: 9:04 pm | Monday, April 9th, 2012