Doha Hosts Discussions on Expanding Russia-Qatar Cooperation in Economy, Technology and Culture

The fifth meeting of the Russian-Qatari Commission on Trade, Economic and Technical Cooperation took place in the capital of the State of Qatar. The session was co-chaired by Denis Manturov, First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar.

The event marked an important milestone in strengthening strategic partnership between the two countries, covering a wide range of cooperation areas—from trade and finance to digital technologies, pharmaceuticals, and humanitarian collaboration. The Moscow Center for International Cooperation played an active role in preparing and implementing the visit program, facilitating cultural and business exchanges while coordinating business community engagement.

A key discussion point was industrial cooperation in pharmaceuticals, shipbuilding, energy machinery, and renewable energy. Denis Manturov emphasized the need to intensify efforts in diversifying trade flows, noting that current trade volumes do not reflect the full potential of bilateral relations.

“Currently, grains—wheat and barley—remain the primary Russian exports to Qatar. We are ready to expand agricultural supplies, including halal products, and are considering establishing a regional agro-industrial hub in Qatar,” stated the First Deputy Prime Minister. He also highlighted promising export opportunities in meat, sunflower oil, and confectionery products.

In the pharmaceutical sector, discussions centered on localizing production of Russian medicines in Qatar with technology transfer, aligning with Qatar’s goals of developing its medical and biotechnological infrastructure.

Cooperation prospects in digital solutions—such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, cybersecurity, and smart cities—were also explored. In this context, Manturov highlighted the significant potential for collaboration between Moscow and Doha as high-tech-oriented megacities.

Special attention was given to tourism and cultural exchange. In 2024, over 100,000 Russian citizens visited Qatar, while around 11,000 Qatari tourists traveled to Russia. According to Manturov, this reflects growing mutual interest in expanding humanitarian ties.

The meeting also addressed initiatives in sports and youth policy. Notably, participants acknowledged the successful hosting of an international rhythmic gymnastics tournament in Doha in autumn 2024, featuring Olympic champion Alina Kabaeva. Plans are underway to sign an intergovernmental memorandum on cooperation in physical education and sports.

Concluding the session, the Russian side invited Qatari partners to participate in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and proposed organizing a Russia-Qatar business forum in Moscow this April. The meeting culminated in the signing of the final protocol, formalizing agreements on enhancing interstate and business dialogue.

During his visit to Doha, Denis Manturov also met with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, conveying warm greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin. The constructive discussions reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to deepening strategic partnership.