San Jose, November 19 (QNA) – HE Vice Minister of Bilateral Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Costa Rica, Lydia Maria Peralta Cordero, emphasized the distinction of bilateral relations between Costa Rica and the State of Qatar.
Her Excellency noted that the two countries are now celebrating the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between them, and the 14th anniversary of opening the first Costa Rican Embassy in the region in the State of Qatar.
In an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), Her Excellency affirmed that the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to the Republic of Costa Rica will contribute to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing them to new levels.
The visit will witness the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two countries in areas including trade, culture, sports and health, as well as exchange of news in Spanish and preparation of diplomats, in addition to an agreement to cancel visas on diplomatic and service passports, Her Excellency noted, expressing her delight to sign these agreements that cover diverse fields and enhance joint cooperation.
Her Excellency pointed out that her country has long sought to establish relations with Arab countries, indicating that bilateral relations with the State of Qatar have played a prominent role in achieving this goal as well as enhancing mutual interests and trade exchange.
Costa Rica sent its first diplomatic mission to an Arab country in 2010, specifically to the State of Qatar, she added, stressing that bilateral relations have seen remarkable development since the visit of HH the Father Amir, which has strengthened cooperation between the two countries at various international levels.
She also addressed the possibility of benefiting from the State of Qatar’s expertise in the fields of sustainable development and investment, highlighting several important projects in Costa Rica, such as the Tower of Hope (Torre de la Esperanza) at the National Children’s Hospital, the renovation and expansion of the Caldera Port (Puerto Caldera) in northern Costa Rica, the establishment of a cruise ships dock at the Puerto Limon cruise port, in addition to the renovation and modernization of the Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport facilities and other projects.
These projects are of a high priority for Costa Rica, Her Excellency noted, expressing that she looks forward to benefiting from Qatari experiences to complete them.
In regard to hosting the ‘HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award’ (ACE Award), HE Peralta Cordero expressed her country’s pride in hosting this event, pointing out that hosting the ACE Award is a recognition of Costa Rica’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption over the years.
HE Vice Minister of Bilateral Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Costa Rica, Lydia Maria Peralta Cordero, concluded her interview with QNA by explaining that choosing the location of the award memorial in the capital San Jose symbolizes youth and vitality, as the spot represents a space dedicated to sports activities, which contributes to promoting positive values as well as combating crime and negative habits.
(QNA)
