China Marks Its 75th Anniversary of Becoming a Nation. Doha, Qatar – A grand reception was hosted by the Embassy of China in Doha to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
This milestone event brought together key dignitaries, including H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, H.E. Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro, Director of the Protocol Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as several ambassadors accredited to Qatar and other distinguished guests.
The celebration not only marked China’s historical achievements but also spotlighted the deepening relationship between China and Qatar. Ambassador of China to Qatar, H.E. Cao Xiaolin, took the opportunity to highlight the profound cooperation between the two nations, noting the impressive results achieved across various sectors.
China Marks Its 75th Anniversary of Becoming a Nation
One of the most remarkable aspects of China-Qatar relations is the exponential growth in bilateral trade. Ambassador Xiaolin emphasized that trade volume between the two countries has skyrocketed from $10.6 billion in 2014 to a staggering $24.5 billion in 2023, reflecting an increase of over 130%. This growth underscores China’s position as Qatar’s largest trading partner and primary export destination since 2020. Qatar, in turn, has solidified its role as China’s second-largest source of liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports worldwide.
The burgeoning economic ties extend beyond energy. Ambassador Xiaolin pointed out key instances of collaboration, including the deployment of new energy buses during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the introduction of electric vehicles in Qatar. Additionally, the contract for 18 QC-Max LNG vessels, signed this year between Chinese and Qatari companies, symbolizes a significant leap in cooperative ventures.
This collaboration forms a new model of highly complementary and mutually beneficial partnerships, anchored by energy cooperation, infrastructure development, financial investments, and technological advancements. These joint ventures are not just strategic business decisions but are delivering real, tangible benefits to the people of both countries.
A Golden Decade of Strategic Partnership
Ambassador Xiaolin proudly reflected on the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between China and Qatar, highlighting the “golden decade” of rapid and comprehensive development under the visionary leadership of President Xi Jinping and H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. This strategic alliance has evolved into a model of unity and mutual benefit among developing nations, showcasing how countries can explore independent development paths tailored to their national conditions while safeguarding each other’s core interests.
China and Qatar have not only strengthened their economic and infrastructural collaboration but have also engaged in close cooperation on significant international and regional issues. The two nations are committed to practicing true multilateralism, advocating for the legitimate rights of developing countries, and fostering global cooperation.
People-to-People Connections: Tourism and Cultural Exchange
Another notable outcome of China-Qatar collaboration is the growing people-to-people exchanges, particularly in tourism. The frequency of direct flights between the two countries has doubled from 30 to 61 per week in the past two years. This increase has driven a surge in Chinese tourists visiting Qatar, with 56,000 Chinese tourists arriving in 2023, marking a remarkable 240% year-on-year growth.
These interactions are more than just tourism statistics; they represent a strengthening of cultural and social ties between the two nations. One of the most endearing symbols of this friendship is the arrival of Suhail and Thuraya, the first pair of giant pandas in the Middle East. Since their arrival, the pandas have been residing in Panda House at Al Khor, delighting visitors and acting as ambassadors of goodwill. These giant pandas have become an essential bridge of cultural exchange and mutual respect between the people of China and Qatar.
A Future Built on Friendship and Mutual Learning
Ambassador Xiaolin concluded his speech by acknowledging the deep-rooted foundation upon which China-Qatar relations are built. The cooperation between these two nations, while already robust, possesses immense potential for future growth. As both countries stand at the threshold of a new historical era, they are committed to embodying the spirit of China-Arab friendship, characterized by solidarity, mutual assistance, equality, and inclusiveness.
The ambassador’s closing remarks reinforced the idea that China and Qatar’s partnership is not just about economic gains or strategic interests. It is about creating a world where developing nations can thrive independently, work together to safeguard their interests, and contribute to global stability and prosperity.
Conclusion
The 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China provided a unique platform to reflect on the achievements of China-Qatar relations. From economic growth to cultural exchange, the partnership between these two nations has flourished over the past decade. This relationship serves as a blueprint for how developing countries can collaborate effectively to achieve mutual benefit, strengthen global ties, and build a brighter future for their people.
Looking forward, it is clear that the China-Qatar relationship will continue to thrive, fostering greater cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and high-tech sectors, while deepening the bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the two peoples. The next decade promises to be even more fruitful, as both nations work together to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.