Malaysia and Qatar will boost cooperation in trade and investment, according to the two countries’ foreign ministers.

Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah (R) with Qatar Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al-Thani at the joint press conference (Source: New Straits Times)

The information was affirmed at a press conference on December 6 after the meeting between Malaysia’s Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Hamad Al-Thani in Putrajaya as part of the latter’s three-day visit to Malaysia.

Qatar Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al-Thani expressed his confidence that Malaysia’s economy will continue to grow and pledged to push ahead with discussions on enhancing investment and economic cooperation.

He noted Malaysian companies are doing a good job in Qatar and encouraged more firms to come to Doha, particularly to join infrastructure projects for the 2022 World Cup.

The two countries agreed to launch a joint business council, he said, adding that both leaders have instructed agencies to set up a platform to supervise sectors relating to economy, trade, politics and more.

Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah said his country is pleased Qatar is ready to increase investment in Malaysia.

The main focus of discussion at the meeting is possible ways for both sides to strengthen and broaden cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, he added.

Sheikh Mohammed said both leaders also discussed bilateral cooperation in international development where the two countries could capitalise on the capacity within the Malaysian government in providing technical assistance while Qatar is providing foreign aid to several countries.

Through this potential cooperation model, the two countries’ leaders hoped to elevate the bilateral relationship, he added.

(Source: VNA)