[INTERVIEW] Qatari ambassador seeks cultural exchange through ‘The Pearl of Qatar’

Photo exhibition runs through Thursday

By Kim Hyun-bin

In a significant milestone celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between Korea and Qatar, The Korea Times and the Embassy of Qatar in Seoul will host a photo exhibition titled “The Pearl of Qatar.” The exhibition will run from Tuesday through Thursday, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and modern achievements of the Gulf nation.

Qatari Ambassador to Korea, Khalid Ebrahim Al-Hamar, sees the exhibition as a prime opportunity to showcase cultural exchange and enhance mutual understanding between the two nations.

“The idea of holding a photo exhibition to commemorate this 50-year anniversary milestone was inspired by our belief in the importance of cultural communication between countries,” Al-Hamar said in an interview with The Korea Times.

“We aim to strengthen cultural channels so that people can engage in dialogue, build friendships and foster mutual understanding.”

The exhibition is one of several cultural events planned throughout the year to celebrate the golden jubilee of Qatari-Korean diplomatic relations.

“Many cultural events, business forums and academic conferences have been and will be organized throughout this year. The photo exhibition is one of these cultural events, providing an opportunity for the Korean people to learn about Qatari culture,” he said.

Visitors to the exhibition will be treated to a visual journey through Qatari heritage, including its desert civilization and marine life, as well as a glimpse into the country’s rapid modernization.

“This event will bring the Korean and Qatari people closer together and represents an important step in developing Qatari-Korean relations in the fields of culture, heritage and arts,” Al-Hamar said.

The ambassador highlighted that the exhibition features works by photographers from both Qatar and Korea, fostering a unique cultural exchange.

“Through the lenses of the photographers, the exhibition will open a window for the Korean people to enjoy the ancient civilization of the State of Qatar, its heritage and unique traditions,” he explained. “This exhibition will also provide a glimpse of Qatar’s renaissance in various fields.”

Al-Hamar expressed confidence that the event would significantly contribute to the cultural exchanges between the two nations.

“Heritage, culture and modern renaissance of the State of Qatar are the topics that the exhibition wants to highlight,” he said. “This will not only showcase our rich cultural heritage, but also the progress we have achieved in recent years.”

Korea-Qatar 50th anniversary

The 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Qatar marks a significant milestone, underscoring half a century of cooperative and solid relationships in numerous areas. Reflecting on the historic ties, Al-Hamar highlighted pivotal moments that have shaped the strong bond between the two nations.

“Among the most important highlights in the relations between the two countries are the mutual visits at the highest levels,” he said. “The visit of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, to the Republic of Korea in 2019, during which a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding were signed in various fields, stands out significantly.”

Another landmark event was the recent visit by President Yoon Suk Yeol to Doha in October 2023.

“During this visit, the two countries signed the agreement to upgrade relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, further emphasizing its importance in the history of bilateral relations,” he said.

On a personal note, the ambassador expressed his pride and commitment to the ongoing relationship.

“As an ambassador of my country, I am very proud to celebrate the 50th anniversary of relations between the two countries, and we will work to make this celebration an opportunity to raise relations to a higher level.”

Discussing the evolution of economic and political ties, Al-Hamar highlighted the alignment of both nations’ visions, particularly in resolving global and regional crises through dialogue and diplomatic channels.

“There is a convergence of visions between the two countries, especially since they believe that resolving global and regional crises should be through dialogue and diplomatic channels,” he said. “There is also coordination between the two countries within international organizations regarding some regional and international issues.”

Economically, the relationship has flourished through extensive cooperation in energy and construction.

“The State of Qatar is the main supplier of liquefied natural gas to Korea, while Korean construction companies have participated in infrastructure projects in the State of Qatar in recent decades,” he said. The partnership has since expanded beyond traditional areas to include technology, smart farms, ports, maritime transport, renewable energy and social care.

The ambassador emphasized that ongoing summits and meetings at various levels contribute significantly to the development and strengthening of these ties.

“Undoubtedly, holding summits and periodic meetings between the two countries at various levels contributes to developing and strengthening the relationship between the State of Qatar and the Republic of Korea,” he said.