'Qatar and Italy enjoy strong relations, aspire to elevate ties across various fields'

Doha: The CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani (pictured) affirmed the strong relations between the S...

Doha: The CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani (pictured) affirmed the strong relations between the State of Qatar and the Italian Republic, as is evidenced by the high-level mutual visits, and the joint aspirations to upgrade the bilateral ties across various fields.

Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), he said that QFZ seeks to create platforms for communication and cooperation, link Italian companies with local companies and government institutions, and boost cooperation and joint work through fruitful partnerships and investments, thus making Qatar a preferred investment destination for Italian companies.

On plans to promote bilateral trade, he pointed to carefully thought-out plans to enhance excellence and increase the number of companies and investors - from Italy and other world countries  in Qatar’s free zones. In this context, he noted that bilateral trade between Qatar and Italy climbed by 80% to reach nearly QR20bn in 2023, compared to QR11.1bn in 2018, in the sectors of energy, healthcare, information and communications technology, infrastructure and real estate.

He added that QFZ has great aspirations to explore more investment opportunities, in line with Italy’s efforts to become a hub for business and investment; noting that the focus is currently on the sectors of technology, sustainable practices and agriculture, as was evident in Expo 2023.

He noted that both countries share common visions on enhancing innovation and expanding their economic participation, along with the tireless work of QFZ to expand the base of its strategic partners in the sectors of technology, energy and infrastructure.