Nigeria’s Ambassador to Qatar, Yakubu Ahmed, has reiterated a commitment to strengthening economic ties with the Asian country through trade and investment.

A statement by Kimiebi Ebienfa, the spokesman for the Nigerian Embassy in Doha, revealed that Mr Ahmed reiterated the commitment when he spoke at a reception organised by the mission in Doha to mark Nigeria’s independence anniversary.

The ambassador noted that since the diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Qatar many years ago, relations between the two countries had been mutually beneficial.

The Nigerian envoy remarked that both countries continued to enjoy cordial relations and supported each other at bilateral and multilateral fora.

He explained that such cordial relations were reinforced by the openness, warmth, and support of the government and people of Qatar, especially under the leadership of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The envoy added that relations between the two countries resulted in several high-level reciprocal visits.

He pointed out that the high point of cordial diplomatic relations between the two countries was the February 2016 state visit by Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari to Qatar, which was reciprocated by Mr Al Thani’s visit to Nigeria in April 2019.

Mr Ahmed said the embassy was working on several programmes in collaboration with the Cultural Village Foundation (Katara) to showcase the cultural diversity of Nigeria through arts and artefacts.

He thanked Qatar’s leadership and humanitarian institutions, especially the Qatar Charity, Qatar Foundation, and Education Above All, for supporting Nigeria’s healthcare, shelter, potable water, and education sectors.

The ambassador also praised Qatar for promoting global peace and harmony.

While speaking on Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022, Mr Ahmed said from all indications, the Asian country was ready for the Mundial.

“All eyes and minds of fans are now on Qatar. With the sense of dedication, energy, and resources invested in the preparatory process, I believe Qatar is adequately ready to host the world,” the statement quoted the ambassador as saying.

Mr Ahmed hoped that many Nigerian fans would add colour to the historic sports fiesta.

(NAN)