Doha, January 07 (QNA) - The Qatari Businessmen Association(QBA) discussed with HE UK Minister of State for Trade policy Greg Hands ways to support trade exchange and boosting trade between the two countries.

The meeting also covered the latest developments in the free trade agreement negotiations between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the United Kingdom, which the two sides highlighted its importance in contributing significantly to economic growth and enhancing trade in goods and services, advanced technologies, and other sectors, in a way that serves the common interests of both sides. The meeting also discussed several economic topics.

During the meeting, the British Minister said that the United Kingdom and the State of Qatar have long-term trade relations, adding that increased cooperation between the UK and Qatari companies has opened great opportunities, as UK exports to Qatar increased by 100 percent last year. He also pointed out that during his meetings, Qatari officials demonstrated the commitment of both countries to delivering greater prosperity through global free trade, by working closely with key organizations such as the QBA.

Minister Hands also expressed his optimism about a better future for the UK after leaving the European Union, saying: "We in the United Kingdom are working on consolidating our relations with important countries such as the State of Qatar and all Gulf and African countries and other economic partners to enhance the prospects for economic and trade cooperation for the country, while I want to bring a clear message to our partners in Qatar that the United Kingdom looks forward to cooperating with the Qatari Businessmen Association to attract more investments, and we now have a great opportunity to strengthen our position in an increasingly interconnected world." For his part, QBA Board Member Saud Al Mana spoke about the bilateral relations between the State of Qatar and the United Kingdom. He also pointed out the economic relations between the two countries and the importance of constantly developing them.

QBA Board Member Omar Al Fardan also stressed the interest of Qatari businessmen in the British market, where there are already many Qatari investments, whether in the public or private sector, as the British market is the preferred investment destination for the Qatari businessman, adding that it is a market full of opportunities. (QNA)