Washington, DC – On October 13th, the US-Qatar Business Council (USQBC) hosted a Private Dinner Reception at its office building rooftop at 1700 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC. The event featured Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari, Minister of Finance for the State of Qatar, and Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al-Thani, Governor of the Central Bank of Qatar.
The event was attended by government and private sector officials from both the US and Qatar, USQBC members, and the wider business community. The event was sponsored by Lulu Group International / Y International USA at the Platinum Level and IBM at the Gold Level.
The following officials delivered remarks during the event:
“The State of Qatar is proud of the incredible partnership with the United States that has been forged over the last 50 years,” said Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari, Minister of Finance for the State of Qatar. “Our bilateral relationship has grown exponentially during this time and we will continue to look for ways to strengthen our robust partnership, especially in the field of investment & trade.”
“Qatar and the United States are more than just allies, we are strategic partners, and this strong partnership directly impacts the American people,” said USQBC President Scott Taylor. “Whether it be cooperating on defensive security, collaborating on energy projects, or calling for peaceful diplomatic solutions; both countries are committed to a prosperous and secure future.”
“The US-Qatar Business Council is committed to expanding and enhancing the already robust US-Qatar relationship,” said Mohammed Barakat, the Managing Director and Treasurer of the Board of Directors at the US-Qatar Business Council. “Through our market advisory services, those companies seeking expand their business in Qatar will be well equipped with the knowledge and access they need to establish their footprint in one of the most attractive global investment destinations.”
The year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and the State of Qatar. This milestone signifies the longevity and strength of the bilateral ties between the two countries. The United States and Qatar have established a solid base for distinguished regional and international political relations, in addition to deep commercial, security, and cultural partnerships. In recognition of this special partnership, following the January 31 visit by Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to the White House, President Joe Biden designated Qatar as a “Major Non-NATO Ally” to the United States.
“Lulu Group International / Y International USA is proud to be a Platinum Level sponsor of this event,” said Dr. Mohamed Althaf, Director of Lulu Group International. “We are committed to the growth and expansion of the US-Qatar relationship and look forward to our continued contributions to Qatar’s food security and economic growth.”
Lulu Hypermarket is the leading retailer in Qatar with 17 outlets and is still growing throughout the State. Lulu’s established its presence in the US in November 2016 with a state-of- the-art export distribution center named Y International USA Inc. located in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. Lulu Hypermarkets and Y International USA has been a major source of support for Qatar during all logistic challenges and crises in the recent past, by ensuring food security, price control and uninterrupted supplies.
Jonathan Adashek, Chief Communications Officer & Senior VP, Marketing and Communications, IBM said, “IBM, a leading global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting services, has been in the Middle East and Africa region for more than 70 years with a direct presence in Qatar since 2012. Over the decades, we have been playing a vital role in shaping the region's technology landscape and accelerating the digital transformation journeys of our customers. IBM has core capabilities in hybrid cloud, AI, blockchain, data, security, and quantum computing, with global competency centers, research facilities and technical exploration centers to serve clients, governments, and the ecosystem. Aligned to Qatar’s 2030 vision of transitioning to a competitive knowledge-based economy. IBM has worked closely with its clients and partners in Qatar to capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Developing and nurturing local talent are also key pillars of IBM’s strategy in Qatar.”