Latest news with #AshrafSiddiqui
Qatar Tribune
16-07-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Turkish envoy hosts family dinner for journalists
Ashraf Siddiqui Demonstrating a distinctive approach to public diplomacy and hospitality, HE Dr Mustafa Goksu, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye to the State of Qatar, recently hosted a special dinner for journalists covering diplomatic affairs, along with their family members at the prestigious Turkish Sazeli Restaurant in The Pearl-Qatar. What is often a formal, professional engagement was transformed into a warm, family-friendly gathering that brought together Turkish Embassy officials and members of the local press community in a relaxed, personal atmosphere. The initiative underscored the embassy's commitment to cultivating genuine, people-to-people ties that go beyond official interactions. The Pearl-Qatar, a prestigious state of the art, modern residential island city development near Doha, provided a fitting backdrop for the event. Its sophisticated setting mirrored the spirit of the evening, which aimed to deepen mutual understanding and promote cultural connections between Turkiye and Qatar. In his address to the guests, Ambassador Dr Mustafa Goksu expressed heartfelt appreciation for the journalists and their families who accepted the invitation. He emphasised the importance of building sincere, family-level relationships within the host country, noting that the embassy's gesture was not merely a diplomatic formality but came from the heart. 'We are brothers and sisters, living in the same country, so we need to know each other — and that includes getting to know your family members,' Dr Goksu said. 'If there is anything we can do for them, we are ready.' Acknowledging the demands of diplomatic responsibilities, the ambassador explained that while he wished to organise such gatherings more frequently, official commitments and regional dynamics sometimes made scheduling difficult. He expressed gratitude that everyone was able to come together that evening, and shared his hope to host similar events in the future. 'God willing, we will continue to have such gatherings at Turkish restaurants,' he said. 'The real challenge is work and time, but if there are any shortcomings, please forgive us.' Dr Goksu also extended special thanks to journalist Ashraf Siddiqui for helping coordinate the event and ensuring strong participation, praising his efforts in making the evening memorable. Earlier, Siddiqui spoke on behalf of the attending media professionals and their families, thanking the Turkish ambassador for his thoughtful and unique invitation. He noted that the evening also offered an opportunity for colleagues' families to meet one another while enjoying renowned Turkish cuisine. Siddiqui expressed appreciation to fellow journalists for enthusiastically accepting the Ambassador's invitation and helping make the gathering a warm, memorable occasion. This dinner, distinguished by its informal, inclusive approach, reflects Turkiye's commitment to fostering genuine friendship and strong people-to-people ties in Qatar. By welcoming journalists and their families in such an open, personal setting, Ambassador Goksu and his team demonstrated a style of diplomacy built on trust, shared experiences, and cultural understanding.
Qatar Tribune
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Turkiye and Qatar enjoy robust ties: Turkish envoy
Ashraf Siddiqui Doha Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye HE Dr Mustafa Goksu has said Turkiye and Qatar enjoy robust ties grounded in mutual trust and solidarity. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Turkish ambassador underscored Turkiye's gratitude for Qatar's unwavering support and reaffirmed both nations' shared commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation. The Turkish Embassy in Qatar is commemorating the ninth anniversary of Türkiye's resolute defense of its democracy on Tuesday. He expressed his deep gratitude to the Turkish people for their unwavering commitment to upholding the country's democratic institutions in the face of the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016. He said that night Turkiye faced an unprecedented threat when the Fethullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) sought to topple its democratically elected government through violence, attacking critical institutions and targeting civilians. The coup was defeated through the resolute stand of unarmed citizens, leaving 251 dead and over 2000 injured, and demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to constitutional order. Ambassador Goksu expressed his gratitude to the leadership of Qatar on its principled and timely support exemplified by His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani who was the first leader to call President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. page 2
Qatar Tribune
14-07-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Turkish embassy to marks 9 yrs of democratic resilience against coup bid
Ashraf Siddiqui Doha The Turkish Embassy in Qatar is set to commemorate the ninth anniversary of Turkiye's resolute defence of its democracy on July 15, 2025. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Ambassador of Turkiye to Qatar HE Dr Mustafa Goksu expressed his deep gratitude to the Turkish people for their unwavering commitment to upholding the country's democratic institutions in the face of the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016. He said that on July 15, 2016 night, Türkiye faced an unprecedented threat when the Fethullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) sought to topple its democratically elected government through violence, attacking critical institutions and targeting coup was defeated through the resolute stand of unarmed citizens, leaving 251 dead and over 2,000 injured, and demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to constitutional order. Ambassador Goksu emphasised Turkiye's continued fight against FETO, whose global network and clandestine methods threaten democratic governance worldwide. Expressing his gratitude to the leadership of Qatar for its principled and timely support, exemplified by the Amir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani being the first leader to call President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, he saidthat it remains deeply valued. He added that today, Turkiye and Qatar enjoy robust ties grounded in mutual trust and solidarity. Despite facing the challenges of attempted coups, natural disasters, and global crises, Türkiye has strengthened its democracy, economy, and international standing, the Ambassador said, underscoring Türkiye's gratitude for Qatar's unwavering support and reaffirming both nations' shared commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation. Dr Goksu highlighted the country's progress and noted that Türkiye remains a leading global tourist destination with nearly 62 million visitors in 2024. Emphasising security, he recalled decisive action against terrorism through operations in Syria, contributing to regional stability. He outlined major infrastructure achievements, including the Eurasia Tunnel, 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, and investments in renewable energy. He also detailed the rise of Türkiye's defence industry, now over 80 percent domestically produced, with advanced projects such as Bayraktar UAVs, the TCG Anadolu assault ship, and the KAAN fighter jet. The envoy pointed to a transformative foreign policy focused on sovereignty, security, and strategic autonomy, balancing ties with NATO and the EU while expanding partnerships in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Türkiye's humanitarian leadership was underscored by its status as the world's largest per capita donor and its value-based foreign policy that prioritises human dignity, he stressed. Goksu also emphasised Turkiye's active diplomacy and mediation efforts—from facilitating peace talks between Somalia and Ethiopia to brokering the Black Sea Grain Initiative in the Russia–Ukraine conflict. He reaffirmed that Turkiye will continue to support stability in Libya, Syria, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Gaza through humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement. He noted Turkiye's role as an energy hub, its vast diplomatic network, and its commitment to multilateralism, innovation, and cultural diplomacy, reinforcing its position as a responsible and influential global actor.
Qatar Tribune
12-07-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Keen on stronger tourism ties with Qatar: Uzbek tourism chief
Ashraf Siddiqui Doha Chairman of the State Committee for Tourism of Uzbekistan Umid Shadiev has emphasised his country's commitment to strengthening bilateral tourism relations with Qatar. Speaking to Qatar Tribune on the sidelines of the Tourism Forum held in Doha under the theme 'Uzbekistan – the Pearl of the Silk Road', he highlighted the strong cultural and religious bonds between Qatar and Uzbekistan as a key opportunity to increase visitor flows in both noted that this objective was one of the main reasons for the 25-member delegation's visit to enhance ties, showcase Uzbekistan, raise its visibility, and encourage greater travel between the two countries. Shadiev explained that Uzbekistan embarked on a major shift in 2017 by opening its doors to the world, an important milestone in its development, adding that prior to that, the country had not been as welcoming as it is today. Following the election of the President of Uzbekistan, tourism was identified as a strategic driver for the national economy. Shadiev led an official delegation that included three committee members and over 20 representatives from the business sector, such as destination management companies, tour operators, chefs promoting Uzbek cuisine, and cultural performers, including traditional musicians and dancers. The delegation's goal was to engage the business community in Doha and to offer an authentic experience of Uzbekistan's intangible cultural heritage. He also highlighted Uzbekistan's rich historical legacy, describing it as an ancient nation with prominent historical figures such as Timur, who rivaled even Alexander the Great in influence. He mentioned the deep historical ties with India and Pakistan, noting that the name 'Hindustan' was introduced by the Uzbeks and that Uzbek dynasties left a significant cultural imprint on the region over centuries of rule. He added that Uzbekistan is home to seven World Heritage Sites, along with historic cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. In addition, the country boasts natural sites recognised by international organisations, including UNESCO, reinforcing the need to attract more international visitors. To facilitate this, the government undertook major reforms, including abolishing visa requirements for citizens of 95 countries, enabling easier access for travellers. This was the first step in boosting tourist arrivals. As visitor numbers grew, it became clear that further development was necessary, such as expanding infrastructure, increasing flight connections, and building additional hotels — areas where the government invested significantly. Shadiev noted that the current priority is to diversify the tourism base. While Uzbekistan already receives visitors from a range of regions, he said there is a strong focus on attracting higher-spending tourists. 'Gulf countries, in particular, are seen as vital due to their significant purchasing power. Recognising this, Uzbekistan has established multiple weekly flights connecting to Doha,' he added.
Qatar Tribune
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Venezuelan Embassy in Qatar celebrates 124th anniversary of independence
Ashraf Siddiqui The Venezuelan Embassy in Qatar marked the 124th anniversary of the nation's independence with a ceremonial reception held at the Sheraton Grand Doha Hotel. Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela HE Carlos José Mata Figuero paid his gratitude to His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and government of Qatar for their solidarity and continued support for Venezuela's right to peace and self-determination. Present on the occasion were HE Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, Minister of Social Development and Family; HE Mohammed bin Ali Bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and information technology; He Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro, Director of Department of protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; He Jassim Mohammed Al-Asmakh, Directorof the Department of American Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; He Jean-Marie Francois, Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti to Qatar - Dean of the Group of Latin America and Caribbean countries in Qatar (Grulac); Ambassadors and distinguished guests. He conveyed warm and fraternal greetings on behalf of the President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, HE Nicolás Maduro Moros, Vice President HE Dr Delcy Rodríguez, and Foreign Minister HE Yván Gil. The event commemorated Venezuela's historic declaration of independence on July 5, 1811, and paid tribute to the legacy of the country's liberator, Simón Bolívar. The ambassador highlighted the enduring significance of July 5 as a patriotic day for Venezuelans, symbolizing unity, sovereignty, and peace. He reflected on the historic events of 1811, when Venezuela's first Congress debated independence under pressure from the Patriotic Society, led by influential figures such as Francisco de Miranda and a young Simón Bolívar. Bolívar's pivotal speech in favor of independence ultimately helped pave the way for Venezuela to become the first Spanish-American colony to declare itself free. He recalled the immense sacrifices made during the 11-year War of Independence, during which Venezuela lost nearly half of its population. Simón Bolívar, the Liberator, led military campaigns spanning over 6,500 kilometers—ten times the distance traveled by Hannibal, three times that of Napoleon, and twice as much as Alexander the Great—leaving behind a legacy of liberation rather than conquest. The ambassador emphasized that Venezuela was born as a sovereign republic and continues to uphold the principles of democracy, equality, and peaceful coexistence with other nations. He reiterated the country's longstanding position in defense of international law and sovereign equality. Quoting President Maduro, the ambassador underscored that Venezuela remains 'irrevocably free and sovereign' despite enduring more than 1,000 unilateral coercive measures. He noted that the Venezuelan people continue to resist modern forms of colonialism and economic pressure through resilience and national effort. In a global context, the ambassador reiterated Venezuela's call for a Summit for Peace and Against War, an initiative proposed by President Maduro. He urged international cooperation through multilateral platforms such as the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Gulf Cooperation Council, BRICS, and with key participation from the Global South, China, and Russia.
