His Excellency Mr Robin Nair presented his credentials as Fiji’s first Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Qatar to the Crown Prince of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani this week.
In his statement, Ambassador Nair conveyed the greetings of President of the Republic of Fiji His Excellency Ratu Epeli Nailatikau to the President and Government of the State of Qatar. He said that Fiji’s presence in the region, and in particular Qatar, was important to strengthening diplomatic relations and advancing its bilateral relations with the State.
Ambassador Nair acknowledged the strength of the Qatari economy and noted the success of its airline industry and the prospect of employment opportunities for Fijian nationals in the progressive economy of the Gulf State.
In welcoming Ambassador Nair, Sheikh Tamim recalled the recent visit of Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Dr Khalid Bin Mohammad Al Attiyah to Fiji to explore the furthering of bilateral relations and opportunities between the two countries.
He highlighted that Qatar was ready to assist Fiji in any possible sectors and sought the Embassy’s efforts to work with the Qatari Foreign Ministry to identify possible needs. He said that he looked forward to the expected visit of the Fijian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation soon and this should include discussions on areas of assistance needed by Fiji and to further explore areas of collaboration and cooperation, including in areas of mutual interest in the building global peace and stability.
The ceremony this morning was preceded by the playing of the national anthems of both countries by the Qatari Military Band, and an inspection of Military Guard of Honour by Ambassador Nair. He was accompanied by First Secretary Emosi Rakai to Qatar.
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