The trade relations between China and Qatar have seen significant growth, with bilateral trade increasing from $10.6bn in 2014 to $24.5bn in 2023. China has emerged as Qatar’s largest trading partner and export destination, showcasing the strong ties between the two nations. The Ambassador of China to Qatar, H E Cao Xiaolin, highlighted the deepening mutual trust between the countries, with consistent high-level meetings between their leaders.
China has maintained strong cooperation with the GCC states, particularly Qatar, in various sectors such as trade, investment, defence, and security. The bilateral trade between China and the GCC states reached $285.98bn in 2023, highlighting the extensive cooperation between the two regions. Chinese companies have actively participated in major projects in Qatar, including oil and gas development, ports and airports, telecommunications networks, stadiums, clean energy, and green transportation.
The investments between China and Qatar continue to show positive momentum, with Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) actively engaging in sectors like finance, technology, pharmaceuticals, and new energy in China. The two countries have developed a new model of cooperation focusing on energy collaboration, infrastructure development, and high-tech sectors, delivering tangible benefits to their people. Prospects for cooperation in areas like food security, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence are promising and will further benefit both nations.
China and Qatar have witnessed increasing people-to-people exchanges, with more Qatari youth learning Chinese and Chinese tourists visiting Qatar in growing numbers. Both countries share similar views on major international and regional issues and have collaborated effectively in multilateral affairs, including advocating for justice in the Gaza conflict. China has played a crucial role in mediating and facilitating ceasefire agreements and promoting peace in the region.
China’s economic development and modernization efforts have been remarkable, with an average annual growth rate of 6.1% from 2013 to 2023. The country remains a key powerhouse of global growth, contributing nearly 30% to the world’s overall growth. China aims to build a community with a shared future for mankind and has put forth initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to promote global cooperation and development. The collaboration between China and Qatar under these initiatives is expected to bring greater achievements and benefits to both nations.
The Ambassador reiterated China’s position on key issues such as Taiwan, Xinjiang, and the Ukraine war. Taiwan is considered an inalienable part of China’s territory, and China has been working to counter violent terrorism, radicalization, and separatism in Xinjiang. On the Ukraine issue, China calls for de-escalation and a political settlement, emphasizing the importance of observing principles for resolving the crisis. Overall, China seeks to collaborate with Qatar to build a community with a shared future for mankind, promote international fairness and peace, and create mutual benefits for both countries.
