H E Stefanie McCollum
Ambassador of Canada H E Stefanie McCollum described the Qatari-Canadian relations as strong and constantly developing at various levels, stressing her country’s keenness to strengthen these relations to serve the common goals and aspirations of the two countries.
In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the occasion of the National Day, she said that the people to people connections continue to underpin the two countries’ steadfast relationship based on mutual respect for each other and cooperation towards shared goals.
This year, the bilateral relations witnessed the signing of a number of agreements, bilateral consultations, visits, and in-person and virtual meetings, she pointed out, expressing hope for more mutual visits during the next year.
“During the next phase of our bilateral relations, we would like to continue to build stronger linkages in the fields of agriculture, education and life sciences, and other initiatives of national importance,” the Ambassador said.
She praised the dynamic Canadian expatriate community that is active in Qatar in strengthening the trade and investment ties.
On a global level, the Canadian Ambassador stressed that Qatar and Canada continue to work side by side to make a positive impact in the world, including on COVID-19 recovery.
Stefanie McCollum expressed her admiration for the policies and measures taken by the Qatari government to confront the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic to achieve a rapid recovery by introducing an economic stimulus package to support the private sector while also spending on health, education, and major infrastructure projects.
She expressed Canada’s sincere gratitude to Qatar for its significant evacuation efforts from Kabul and for allowing Canada to open a temporary diplomatic office for Afghanistan in Doha.
Regarding preparations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the Ambassador confirmed that she had sensed a high level of readiness for the World Cup. “The promotion and use of the various stadiums during the Arab Cup indicates that the preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup are on schedule, which is impressive considering we are a year removed from the start of the competition. Canada will welcome Qatar’s expertise as we prepares to co-host World Cup in 2026,” she added.
