In an unexpected turn, Qatar has reversed its initial decision and will now host the business and investment forum proposed by President Bola Tinubu during his state visit from March 2 to March 3. A leaked memo previously cited the unavailability of Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mohammed Bin Hamad Al-Thani, as the reason for declining the forum.
However, a recent memo dated February 23, 2024, from the Qatar embassy to Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed a change in stance. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Qatar apologized for the rejection and confirmed that the Qatar Chamber of Commerce would host the Business and Investment Forum on March 3, aligning with the Nigerian side's proposal.
This diplomatic reversal signifies a potential thaw in relations and presents an opportunity for constructive discussions on trade and investment during President Tinubu's visit. The details of the forum's agenda and the implications for Qatar-Nigeria economic ties will likely be closely watched in the coming days.
