Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 10
By Emil Ilgar – Trend:
Qatar has announced on Aug.9 that it will allow a visa-free entry for the citizens of 80 countries; however, Iran was not included in the list.
The decision on elimination of visas for foreign citizens was aimed at the amplification of air transportation and tourism sectors.
Right after Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and UEA imposed blockade in June, Iran has become Qatar’s gateway to the world, especially when it comes to air transportation.
Nevertheless, Mehr reported on Aug.10 that Qatar will facilitate visa regime for Iranians. “The Internal Affairs Ministry of Qatar has issued a circular, which facilitates visa regime for Iranian businessmen,” the report said.
Earlier in June Saudi Arabia and its regional allies severed ties with Qatar over Doha’s support for the Muslim Brotherhood, world’s oldest Islamist movement, and also its ties with Saudis’ arch-rival Iran, sparking off simmering dispute in the Gulf Cooperation Council.