Bogotá: Qatar and Colombia have issued a joint statement on the occasion of the official visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Colombia. The statement highlights strengthened diplomatic relations and new initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
According to Qatar News Agency, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and His Excellency Gustavo Petro, President of the Republic of Colombia, held bilateral discussions on November 20, 2024, at the Narino Palace in Bogotá. The leaders, accompanied by high-ranking ministers from both nations, emphasized their commitment to expanding cooperation across political, economic, and cultural spheres.
Qatar welcomed Colombia’s announcement to establish an embassy in Doha, marking a significant advancement in diplomatic relations. Both sides witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on economic, commercial, and technical cooperation, which aims to facilitate joint initiatives and pro
mote exchange visits between business leaders and chambers of commerce. Additionally, the two governments signed memorandums of understanding in tourism, ports, sports, and news exchange to strengthen bilateral engagement across various sectors. Colombia expressed interest in developing initiatives to support health and education, particularly in remote areas and conflict-affected regions.
Both nations agreed to advance discussions toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Colombia presented a roadmap for negotiations, building on discussions held during COP 28 in Dubai in December 2023. To strengthen trade and investment ties, both countries agreed to establish a dialogue between Colombia’s National Tax and Customs Authority (DIAN) and its Qatari counterpart to enhance cooperation in taxation and customs matters.
In their discussions on regional developments, both sides focused on efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability. The nations emphasized the importance of achieving a perman
ent cessation of hostilities, upholding international law regarding the protection of civilians in armed conflicts, and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Colombia commended Qatar’s diplomatic role in promoting regional peace and stability, including its mediation efforts. Qatar appreciated Colombia’s steadfast support for a two-state solution and its opposition to illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Qatar and Colombia expressed satisfaction with the concrete outcomes of this visit and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation. Both countries pledged to maintain regular consultations on bilateral and regional issues while working together to address global challenges.