DOHA, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese tech giant Huawei said it has become one of the first fully owned technology companies in Qatar, state-run Qatar News Agency reported Wednesday.
"Huawei, a leading global provider of communications and information technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices, became one of the first technology companies with 100 percent ownership in Qatar," Huawei said in a statement on Tuesday evening.
According to the statement, Huawei opened a new office in West Bay area of Qatar's capital Doha, bringing its number of offices in the capital city to three.
The establishment of the third office will help promote the ICT industry in Doha, while expanding Huawei's support to other vital sectors in the city such as oil, gas, transport, education and health, the statement noted.
"This marks an exciting new period of growth for us in the country, and we are looking forward to expanding our activities and collaborating with our local partners and customers to further innovate and drive forward the local ICT industry," said Frank Fan, CEO of Huawei Qatar.
Mohammed Ali Al Mannai, president of Qatar's Communications Regulatory Authority, also expressed welcome to "Huawei's expansion" and "active contribution to the economy."
In 2005, Huawei opened its first office in Qatar. It has now about 180 direct employees as well as many local and international partners.
Over the past few years, the Chinese company has launched several major projects in Qatar, as the telecom giant is working on developing the fifth-generation technology, which is expected to provide better communication services between individuals, vehicles, homes, and appliances.
On May 24, Qatar's cabinet approved a draft law to encourage foreign investment in the country to boost economic development.
The draft law allows the access of non-Qatari investment in all economic fields with up to 100-percent ownership, and provides incentives for foreign investors, including allocating lands to carry out their investment projects, to support such action.
