SHEIKH FAISAL BIN QASSIM AL THANI
TBY talks to Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding.
BIOGRAPHY
Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani is one of Qatar's most successful businesspeople and has built Al Faisal Holding into one of Qatar's largest privately held diversified groups with operations across local, regional, and international markets. He is also chairperson of Aamal Company, chairperson of the Qatari Businessmen Association, and a member of the board at Qatar University, Business College of DePaul University (US), and the American School of Doha.
Following the official invitation from the Republic of Ecuador, what have been your first impressions, and how do you see relations between the two countries evolving?
It was my pleasure to have received such a warm welcome upon my arrival in Ecuador. It is a place that enjoys beautiful weather and wonderful nature. Despite the long distance between Qatar and Ecuador, the two countries have much in common. The relationship between the two countries is developing on all levels. I have visited Ecuador in my capacity as a businessperson to learn about Ecuador's investment environment, as well as to learn more about the areas Al Faisal Holding can play an effective role. Our investments outside of Qatar are mainly in real estate and hospitality. This is where we are most likely to be evaluating opportunities, particularly in light of the recent agreement between Qatar and Ecuador aimed at developing the hospitality and tourism sectors in both countries.
Which sectors in Ecuador do you see as the most promising for investments?
There are several promising sectors in Ecuador, such as agriculture and tourism. However, to better evaluate the various opportunities, we have to further understand the country's investment rules and regulations regarding foreign investors, export, and marketing, both in Ecuador and its neighbors. I consider Ecuador one of the world's most beautiful tourist destinations. I hope this sector receives the attention and care it deserves, as there are many attractive factors that can help drive tourism in Ecuador, including the capital city of Quito, the volcanoes, as well as the fact that the equator passes through the country. One of my favorite places in Ecuador is the Galápagos Islands. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful parts of Ecuador.
SHEIKH FAISAL BIN QASSIM AL THANI
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Interview
Felipe Ribadeneira Molestina, President of the Board of Directors, Ecuadorian Federation of Exporters (FEDEXPOR)
FEDEXPOR is directing the government to sign new trade agreements, reduce bureaucratic red tape, and implement a host of other measures to increase Ecuador's competitiveness in the global market.
read articleInterview
Walter Spurrier, President, Grupo Spurrier
For decades, Grupo Spurrier has been providing key data and insights to international companies interested in Ecuador. With mining activity picking up pace again, the company is set to play a bigger role in the country's economic development.
read articleInterview
Fernando L. Benalcázar, Vice Minister of Mines, Ministry of Energy and Non-renewable Natural Resources
TBY talks to Fernando L. Benalcázar, Vice Minister of Mines, Ministry of Energy and Non-renewable Natural Resources, on developments in the sector, expectations for 2020, and the potential of Ecuador's economy.
read articleInterview
Agustín Albán, Secretary, Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation (SENESCYT)
Through a holistic education policy, SENESCYT is working on establishing international alliances, creating online learning programs, and increasing the amount of R&D activities in Ecuador's universities.
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Raúl Villacrés Vanegas, Executive Director, Ecuadorian Association of Banana Exporters (AEBE)
Representing 70% of Ecuador's banana exports, AEBE has worked hand in hand with the state to support the circulation of better agricultural, social, and environmental practices in the sector.
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