Qatar, PH officials explore cooperation in transport sector

Philippine Ambassador to Qatar Alan L. Timbayan (left) poses for a photo with His Excellency Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti (right), Minister of Transportation and Communication (MOTC) of the State of Qatar. (Photo: Department of Foreign Affairs)

MANILA– The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday said Qatar and the Philippines are currently exploring ways to expand cooperation, particularly in transport sector, just as the latter focuses in accelerating its infrastructure development via the Build, Build, Build program to initially enhance transportation system in the country.

Philippine Ambassador to Qatar Alan Timbayan called on His Excellency Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, Minister of Transportation and Communication of the State of Qatar, on April 2.

During the meeting, DFA said the two officials discussed the possible cooperation on the sector.

Sulaiti expressed his willingness to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Hamad Port and its counterpart agency in the Philippines, which he envisions to open more opportunities in trade and shipping from both countries.

Aside from growing interest to expand relations with Manila, connectivity between the two states have been making a headway despite an air and sea blockade in the Gulf State. The blockade was caused by a diplomatic crisis when Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates cut ties with Qatar in June 2017.

For its ‎2018-2019 expansion, state-owned Qatar Airways is adding direct flights to Davao and Cebu.