facebooktwittertelegramwhatsapp
copy short urlprintemail
+ A
A -
webmaster

Tribune News Network
Doha
While the unjust siege imposed on Qatar by the Saudi-led quartet has solidified the Qatari unity and patriotism on one hand, it brought out the strength and resilience of the economy in the face of continuing isolation, Australian researcher Liam Carmody has said.
In an article written for Australian non-profit research institute, the Future Directions International, Camrody said,"Among Qataris, an 'us against the world' sentiment has arisen due to the economic and diplomatic success of the country."
The Qatari economy, he said, appeared to be recovering strongly more than a year after the imposition of the blockade.
"The Qatari economy has largely recovered from the initial effects of the blockade, with economic growth and trade continuing to improve."
According to Qatar's Ministry of Finance, he said, the economy is expected to grow 2.6 percent in 2018 and 3 percent in 2019.
"The ability of Qatar to weather the blockade has so far been largely dependent on its ability to deploy its significant financial reserves."
Citing Bloomberg Economics, Camrody said Qatar has enough assets to finance deficits until the year 2133.
The author highlighted the support extended by Iran and Turkey to Qatar during the blockade.
Immediately following the imposition of the blockade, Camrody said Qatar had to rely on Iranian airspace and shipping lanes to continue the flow of goods and services to its people.
"Iran has also continued to supply construction materials needed for the numerous infrastructure projects being undertaken in Qatar ahead of the 2020 World Cup."
Turkey, he said, also rushed to supply food and basic necessities in the days after the blockade, with Turkish imports valued at $523 million between June and December 2017.
Camrody said the siege has also acted as a catalyst to enhance the image and personality of Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani in Qatar and at global stage.
The images and murals of the Amir can be seen throughout Doha on skyscrapers, cars, t-shirts and flags, he said.
copy short url   Copy
22/07/2018
2475