Minister of Economy and Commerce H E Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Al Thani, touring Project Qatar 2018 exhibition with other officials at DECC yesterday. Pic: Baher Amin / The Peninsula
DOHA: Minister of Economy and Commerce H E Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Al Thani said yesterday that the huge participation of companies across the world in exhibitions such as Project Qatar, reflects the strength of Qatar’s economy. Qatar’s economy is expected to witness a robust growth which is likely to be highest in the region. He was speaking to the media persons after inaugurating the 15th edition of Project Qatar 2018 exhibition that begin at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center.
“The state’s commitment to supporting the construction sector has contributed to positioning Qatar as one of the fastest growing markets in the region and the world,” he added.
Over 280 international exhibitors from 21 countries and 126 local companies are participating in this international trade exhibition for construction technology, building materials, equipment and environmental technology sector.
The exhibition running until May 10, aims to meet the needs of Qatar’s ever-growing construction sector following the massive development projects being implemented in the country in line with its efforts to meet the goals of Qatar Vision 2030 and the upcoming hosting of the global sporting event FIFA World Cup 2022.
The Qatar Government has earmarked as much as QR200bn to spend in 2018 for the construction of key projects in transport and infrastructure, healthcare, education, sporting facilities, water, and tourism.
Haidar Mshaimesh, Projects Director, IFP Qatar, said “The continued interest of the global construction market to Qatar’s development has kept us working doubly hard to attract major international industry players. It is aimed to meet the local demand for world-class product and services, which we are witnessing now at this event”.
“Qatar’s construction sector demands top quality products and services following international standards, in line with the ambitious plans of the country to deliver economic growth and sustainable development,” he said.
Exhibitor are showcasing their products and services which belong to the top ten construction-related needs in the sector such as building materials, electrical supplies, construction systems and technology, engineering and design services, marble blocks, tiles and slabs, pipes and fittings, steel products, marble finished products, stone blocks, slabs and finished products; and ceramic tiles and granite.
Mohammed Masoud Al Marri, Infrastructure Affairs Director, Ashghal, said “This important networking event is key for the development and provides support to the requirements of Qatar’s construction sector, which is essential at this stage specially in our move towards sustainable development. The platform has been instrumental in paving the way for key projects such as the Expressway Programme which will deliver some of the largest expressways in Qatar, and the Local Roads & Drainage Programme which will deliver many roads and integrated infrastructure projects in local areas”
.“Ashghal is also cooperating with working relevant Qatari authorities on significant building projects that include healthcare, educational, and general sector projects. We are committed to Qatar’s infrastructure development, and this event will help us showcase our efforts to achieve this end,” he said.
Ahmad Nasser Sraiya Al Kaabi, COO, Al Sraiya Holding, added “By showcasing the latest and the best in technology and products, Project Qatar brings the world spotlight on the potentials of the country. This event helps us acquaint ourselves with the latest trends and stay ahead of the curve”.
Project Qatar, for the first time, also hosted the Future Projects Qatar Conference, which kicked off with a panel discussion themed ‘Shaping the Future of Qatar’s Construction’.
