The ambassadors of Panama and Costa Rica have praised Qatar for promoting safety and unity amid the government’s announcement of the gradual resumption of operations in the social and economic domains.
“The pandemic has put the whole world in seclusion and fear. Those who realised its consequences exerted all efforts to guarantee the safety and lives of families, neighbours, and residents of each country. Qatar was not an exception as we embraced together the health and safety protocols to curb the impact of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19),” Panama ambassador Musa Asvat told Gulf Times.
According to the envoy, Panama and Qatar share the same mission of advocating respect among neighbouring regions, as well as delivering the message of peace and unity.
“Qatar also brings education to millions of children living in conflict zones, as well as blessing to those in need. In Panama, we have the Humanitarian Hub of the Americas – the only one of its kind in the whole Americas and from which many aid and medicines goes to the region,” Asvat explained.
“As a Panamanian architect, every time I see such a wonderful piece of art, it reminds me that balance, integrity, and values are important to remember our history, where we come from, where we are heading, and that we have more similarities than differences.
“The examples are also in other masterpieces like the Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar National Library, National Museum, Hamad International Airport, and Katara, among many others,” Asvat added.
According to Costa Rica's ambassador Mariano Segura Avila, the nature of the citizens of Costa Rica and Qatar “is very similar.”
“Both countries have prioritised peace and tranquility among their peoples; their history has required them to be immersed in regional conflicts and to be indirect protagonists in other people’s disputes.
“Furthermore, the population in our countries has a high component of immigrants, who have left their countries in search of better opportunities and more adequate living conditions for their families,” Avila stressed.
The ambassador also noted that “both peoples have been able to maintain their intrinsic nature over time; migrants and the resident population believe that the best way to live is to be free under the banner of peace, unity, and prosperity.”
“From our embassy in Qatar, we have tried to send the message to our community that we are privileged to live in a country like Qatar. Thanks to their characteristics, Costa Ricans easily adapt to the way of life in Qatar and fully-integrate with the Qatari community and other foreign workers.
“There are Costa Ricans who are currently participating in the educational process in Qatar, while others are part of the development of cultural activities or legacy projects of the country, such as the participation of the Costa Rican community in cultural events held within the framework of sports competitions for the 2022 FIFA World Cup,” Avila emphasised.
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