Doha: HE President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali stressed that the State of Qatar and Guyana share a firmly held vision based on the importance of peaceful coexistence among peoples, and that conflict prevention begins with establishing strong frameworks and agendas that promote peace and address the root causes of tensions before they escalate into conflicts.
According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency highlighted Qatar's prominent role in serving humanity globally, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, by supporting social and health development initiatives. In an exclusive interview, he emphasized that peace is achieved through dialogue and a commitment to finding solutions to complex issues, noting Guyana's alignment with Qatar in fostering dialogue and consensus-building through joint action, commitment, respect, and adherence to agreements.
He explained that his current visit to Qatar aims to further cement and expand the developmental framework between Guyana and Qatar. The two countries share historic relations based on shared aspirations and are moving toward greater cooperation in human capital development, energy, transportation, investment, food security, and climate security.
His Excellency stated that the relationship between the two nations has evolved from cooperation in diplomacy and social development to a broader partnership, with a diverse range of opportunities that both countries seek to develop. "Qatar is an important partner for Guyana," he said, recognizing Qatar as a global leader in energy, peace, education, and environment. He expressed hope for enhanced technical support and highlighted investment opportunities in Guyana for Qatar's private sector and government entities, particularly in the energy and food security sectors.
Guyana, he noted, offers fertile ground for Qatari investment across all fields due to its abundant freshwater resources and vast arable land. Combining Qatar's capital and technology with Guyana's agricultural potential could open exceptional prospects for cooperation. He also pointed out significant opportunities in Guyana's mining sector and the potential for technical support from Qatari institutions in building national capacities and managing the energy sector.
Regarding Qatari investments, he mentioned that the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) is pursuing initiatives in agriculture and mining in Guyana, with QatarEnergy exploring further development opportunities. He emphasized ongoing discussions and interest between the two sides.
On balancing oil development and climate commitments, Dr. Ali noted that Guyana is implementing concrete environmental measures and hopes for Qatar's strategic partnership in environmental services. He highlighted Guyana's Low Carbon Development Strategy, vast forest coverage, low deforestation rate, and significant carbon retention, and expressed interest in entering global carbon markets with Qatar's support.
He called on Qatar to join the Global Biodiversity Alliance and praised the Qatar Foundation's role in protecting mangrove forests. He affirmed bilateral cooperation extends beyond energy to a comprehensive strategic partnership in climate, environmental services, and biodiversity.
Discussing air connectivity, he revealed fruitful meetings with Qatar Airways about launching direct flights between Doha and Georgetown, emphasizing its priority in integrating Guyana into Qatar Airways' expansion plans and route network development.
On healthcare, he praised Qatar's advanced capabilities, citing a medical cooperation program involving Qatari specialist doctors in Guyana. He also highlighted efforts to integrate into the Qatar Foundation ecosystem for educational expertise, curriculum development, and cooperation in artificial intelligence, digitalization, and religious studies.
Concluding the interview with QNA, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation and Guyana's commitment to building an educational system that preserves national identity and strengthens cultural distinctiveness.