By JABER AL HARAMI
DOHA: Qatar and Ecuador are passing through the best phase of their relationship, which goes beyond mutual interests and is based on shared values and principles like supporting the Palestinian cause, president of Ecuador Rafael Correa Delgado has said.
Delgado said both the countries have agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, tourism, petrochemicals, mining, food, education, among other sectors.
“My visit to Qatar is to show respect to the Arab world and the Arab-Islamic culture. Last year the Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani visited Ecuador and we were keen to reciprocate,” Delgado said in an interview with Al Sharq.
During his recent visit, he said, agreements have been signed between the two countries on double taxation, tourism and waiving visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and special passports. Asked how the two countries can play a positive role on Middle Eastern and Latin American issues, Delgado said, “This is the best opportunity in history. Ecuador was not known to the Middle East earlier and we didn’t know about GCC and the Middle East. We didn’t have an embassy in the Middle East. Now we have an embassy in Qatar and Qatar has an embassy in Quito.”
He said the relations between Qatar and Ecuador surpassed economic interests.
“Our relations are not focusing only on the economic aspect but extend to culture, science and other areas. We know trade and investment are very important. Ecuador is producing large amount of food and we have the ability to provide our surplus food to other friendly countries. We may be able to help Qatar in achieving food security,” said Delgado.
On boosting relations in the education and tourism sectors, the president said, eight students from Ecuador are studying in Qatar and this number can be increased manifold in the years to come. He said there are more opportunities for cooperation in sports, tourism and investment.
The tourism sector in Ecuador has witnessed 15 percent growth which is three times higher than the international growth rate.
“We have discussed with the Emir a proposal to set up joint companies for food exports and imports,” Delgado said.
“We need to build infrastructure in hospitality sector and Qatar has a good experience in the field. Qatar can also help us develop our booming real estate sector,” added Delgado.
On Ecuador’s policy towards Middle Eastern issues, he said, “Our foreign policy is based on values and principles, not on vested interests. We reject any violence against the Arab peoples and any violation of international laws. We support the Palestinian people and condemn Israeli aggression. We recognise an independent Palestinian state with 1967 borders. Occupation cannot be legitimised by force.”
The Peninsula
