Foreword
A few words from
His Excellency
I have been honoured to be the Qatari Ambassador to the UK for over two years
now. In that time, I have seen the already strong relationship between our two
countries continue to grow and diversify.
This relationship is based on universal values that are shared across our cultures.
At the same time, our societies have evolved from very different traditions. These
overlaps and contrasts create a strong space for intercultural dialogue.
This magazine explores that space. So often our bilateral ties are described in
economic and political terms, but we wanted to showcase the artistic passions and
cultural endeavours that Qatar and the UK share and enjoy.
Anyone who has spent time in Doha will know the value we place on fostering
and preserving our culture and the arts. The bustling Souq Waqif is a cornerstone
of our cultural heritage, while the Museum of Islamic Art houses a world-class
collection of Islamic masterpieces in one of Qatar’s most awe-inspiring buildings.
Living in the UK, I have seen a similar appreciation and respect for the arts. Every
year millions of people from around the world visit the UK, and tour the many
remarkable museums and galleries. From the Natural History Museum in London
to the Tate Liverpool, there is so much this country has to offer.
But what is particularly exciting to me is where these roads cross—whether through
the Qatar Foundation’s work with the British Library to preserve the history and
culture of the Gulf, or Lord Norman Foster’s designs for the largest proposed venue
for the 2022 World Cup. You can find Qatar’s creative spirit in the UK, and the
UK’s innovative designs in Qatar.
We are thrilled to share these stories, and many more, in the first edition of our
Embassy’s Q Magazine.
His Excellency Yousef bin Ali Al Khater,
Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the United Kingdom
Twitter @Amb_AlKhater
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