Central American nations vow deeper Qatar ties at 205th anniversary of independence

Doha, Qatar - Central American nations Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras convened in Doha to celebrate the 205th anniversary of their independence from Spain, while simultaneously pledging to deepen their ties with Qatar. The gathering, held at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl, saw representatives from each country as well as Qatar's diplomatic community in attendance.

Minister of Municipality H.E. Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah, along with various ambassadors and charged d'affaires, participated in the reception. They observed a moment of silence in remembrance of the late H.E. Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah and H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former leaders of Qatar and Libya respectively.

Speaking on behalf of the gathering, Ambassador Ibrahim bin Yousif Abdullah Fakhro highlighted the deep-rooted bonds shared by the Central American nations and Qatar. He emphasized the common values of family, community, hospitality, and respect for traditions, stating that these values lay a strong foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation.

Ambassador Fakhro noted that the warm hospitality and generosity of the Qatari people had helped Central Americans living in Qatar to feel at home, while also sharing their own cultures with their hosts. He stressed that these human and cultural ties form an essential basis for furthering relations between the two regions.

Ambassador Fakhro proceeded to discuss the growing governmental cooperation between Qatar and the four Central American countries. He pointed out that their collaboration extends to various sectors including politics, trade, tourism, education, culture, agriculture, infrastructure, energy, and more. He also mentioned ongoing negotiations for bilateral and cooperation agreements to further expand areas of cooperation and strengthen their friendship.

The ambassador praised Qatar's increasing role in regional and international diplomacy, particularly its mediation efforts. He expressed appreciation for Qatar's management of internal security during recent regional tensions. Looking forward, Ambassador Fakhro identified expanding trade and investment, increasing tourism, promoting business partnerships, and deepening cooperation in food security, agriculture, energy, infrastructure, education, science, and technology as key areas for growth in the future relationship.

He also recognized the important role played by Central American communities already residing in Qatar, describing them as a "human bridge" between the two regions. With this renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, the nations vowed to forge practical partnerships that generate concrete opportunities and benefits for their peoples.