By Dr. Ali Ibrahim Al-Malki, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of the Philippines
On this day, we celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the first modern sovereign state… an entity with dignity, ingenuity and affiliation, by Sheikh Jassem bin Mohammed Al Thani, on Dec. 18, 1878.
On this occasion I am honored to extend my most sincere congratulations to his highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, "May Allah protect him," the Father Amir, his highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, "May Allah protect him" to his highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Amir of the State of Qatar, and to His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of the State of Qatar.
I also convey my warm congratulations to the Qatari people, as well as to all the residents in the State of Qatar. On this occasion, may Allah spread His protection for us all and blessings for our country’s further progress and development.
This year's celebration reflects the tight interconnection of the Qatari people with the environment. Raised, coexisted and influenced by the characteristics of nature, the colors of soil, sea, and sky and the transformation of seasons, played an important part in forming their personality and identity. It is in a way mirrors the national vision of the State, which is promoting loyalty, solidarity, unity, as well as pride in the national identity of the State.
While oneness with environment is highlighted, Qatar is hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in a carbon-neutral version, exhibits the State's dedication to protecting future generations of Qatar and the region, giving emphasis on the importance of the role it plays in providing a decent life for everyone living in its land. This comes in line with Qatar’s interest in achieving the National Vision 2030, considering that the environment constitutes one of the most important strategic pillars for the national development in the State of Qatar, in order to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development for future generations.
Also part of its endeavors to achieve the National Vision 2030, the State of Qatar witnessed in October this year, the first legislative elections in its history. It is in an important move towards developing the legislative and political process, laying the foundations of Shura and expanding the participation of citizens in governance. This move, which reflects the traditions of the state of Qatar, represented by the just and rational governance linked to the people, shows the solidarity and cohesion of the Qatari society, as well as its tolerance to moral values and love for the country.
In the context of legislative reforms, wise leadership paved way to reforming labor policies, which constituted a new era for Qatar and regional labor market. It is a roadmap described by many countries as a "giant step", echoing the State's commitment to giving migrant workers more freedom and protection, providing employers with more options.
These reforms offered an example for other countries in the regions to emulate. They have been praised by many countries in the world and international organizations; the State of Qatar is considered the first Arab country to carry out important reforms in labor policies.
We do not forget to refer to the latest legal initiatives, which include setting the minimum wage, simplifying the procedures for transferring workers between employers, and abolition of the sponsorship (Kafala) system in the recruitment and employment of migrant workers.
Along these achievements and endeavor, it is also an honor to mention that the State of Qatar marks its 50th year as a member country of the United Nations. The State has been distinguished for strong cooperation with the international community and establishment of fruitful partnerships with the international organizations in various fields.
This year also, marks The 40th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the State of Qatar and the Republic of the Philippines.
The State of Qatar gives great importance to its bilateral relations with the Philippines and seeks to deepen its strategic partnership in the field of politics and economy.
All these years, the cooperation between the two countries has expanded to a broader horizon, extending further to humanitarian activities and people- to –people relations.
The four decade of diplomatic relations between the two countries is also a celebration of solid friendship over the years, which has led to several successful mutual agreements. This also manifests great optimism for the future and firm determination to move forward together to an important milestone in the relations between the two countries.
The State of Qatar hosts more than 242,000 Filipino workers, occupying various sectors. In addition, there are also more than 200 Filipino companies operating in Qatar market engaged in different activities, as well.
Based on the spirit of principles of justice and equality, the State of Qatar has always valued the roles played by Filipino workers and their contributions to the development of Qatar.
Despite the pandemic, the State of Qatar has been keen to ensure public safety and health for all. Qatar’s wise leadership has implemented health measures to protect its citizens and residents, from the danger of pandemic. This comes as a deep affirmation in the preservation of basic and health rights and providing a suitable environment for citizens and those working in the country, of different nationalities.
Moreover, on the humanitarian level, the State of Qatar provided comprehensive and free health care to all migrant workers, including Filipino workers, with safety and prevention equipment, vaccination and treatment in case of infection with the virus, as well as initiation of medical records for them.
As Qatar focuses on investing to comprehensive human development, an integrated nutrition system was also implemented, which is the first of its kind in the region, to improve workers' diets and increase their awareness on the importance of health maintenance.
The State of Qatar continued to stand by the friendly country, the Philippines, even in the midst of Covid- 19 pandemic, as Qatar provided last November, through Qatar Fund for Development, 50,000 doses of vaccines, at a value of USD450,000.
We also note that Qatar Airways was the only airline that remained operational during the lockdown, in evacuating and repatriating Filipinos, transporting vaccines, safety equipment and medical protection to the Philippines.
Qatar's organizations and associations voluntarily extended their humanitarian and social activities in the development projects for the Philippines, such as the housing project implemented by Qatar Red Crescent in Mindanao Region and interventions during disasters, where the State of Qatar, through Qatar Fund for Development, sent more than 50 tons of humanitarian aid for the victims of typhoon “Vamco”, in response to the directives of His Highness, The Amir, "may Allah bless him”,
The Philippines, with diverse scenic nature and hospitable people, has been an important tourist destination for many Qatari citizens. It will be a potential opportunity to reviving trade exchange between the two countries, through the important role of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its capacity in developing economic cooperation between private sectors of both countries and establishment of economic partnerships between Qatar businessmen and their counterparts in the Philippines.
The celebration of the National Day of the State of Qatar will remain a platform and a forum for all peoples in the Philippines , through which the State of Qatar constantly exerting intensive efforts to enhance the bilateral relations between the two countries, especially under the administration of His Excellency President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, where opportunities are still favorable to advance trade and investment among other areas, including energy, health, education and culture, and concluded agreements, as well as activation of joint memoranda of understanding for bilateral cooperation.
Finally, I pray to Allah, the Almighty to enable the Philippine government to overcome the Corona pandemic, thus contributing to alleviating the social and economic impact it caused, and achieving the country’s comprehensive economic renaissance.
I also pray to Allah, to perpetuate the blessing of security and safety on our beloved country, and on the friendly Republic of the Philippines, people and government.
Wa Alsalamu A'laikum…