Minister of Labour H E Dr. Ali bin Saeed bin Smaikh Al Marri (second left); Ambassador of Guyana to Qatar, H E Safraaz Ahmad Shadood (centre); Director of the Protocol Department, MoFA, H E Ambassador Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro; and Director of the Americas Department, MoFA, H E Jassim Al Asmakh at the event in Doha yesterday. Pic: Rajan Vadakkemuriyil/The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: The 59th Independence Day of Guyana was celebrated in Qatar yesterday under the theme “Greener Together,” highlighting Guyana’s rich culture and strong commitment to environmental protection and climate resilience.
A diplomatic reception brought together government officials, diplomats, members of the business community, and the Guyanese diaspora at the Sheraton Doha.
Minister of Labour, H E Dr. Ali bin Saeed bin Smaikh Al Marri, graced the occasion as the guest of honour, accompanied by Director of the Protocol Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro and Director of the Americas Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jassim Al Asmakh and other officials.
Ambassador of Guyana to Qatar, H E Safraaz Ahmad Shadood, presented a piece of artwork showcasing the kaleidoscopic nature of Guyana to the Minister of Labour.
The event featured a televised speech by the President of Guyana, H E Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who expressed appreciation for and highlighted the vital role of the Guyanese diaspora in the country’s development.
In his address, Ambassador Shadood emphasised Guyana’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental protection, and climate resilience. He noted that Guyana is internationally recognised for having one of the world’s lowest deforestation rates and uniquely self-sufficient in feeding its population from all seven food groups without imports.
The celebration continued with a cultural performance by Ivan Rockdrigo, who wore a Jaguar costume and showcased an acrobatic display.
A traditional cake-cutting ceremony was led by Ambassador Shadood alongside other distinguished officials to mark the occasion.
The vote of thanks was delivered by the event coordinator, Dr. Julia Theresa Kanhai, who paid tribute to the Government of the State of Qatar for being magnificent hosts and expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event.
Guests enjoyed a culinary journey featuring mauby and sorrel drinks and indulged in Guyana’s national dish, Pepperpot.
The event also included a live performance by an artist who presented several pieces of her work to the Qatari Government, the Guyanese Government, and other guests in honour of the bilateral ties between the two nations.
To conclude the celebrations, the Torch Hotel and the Sheraton Doha were illuminated in the colours of the Golden Arrowhead, marking Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary.
