Qatar buys stake in Chinese airline
Qatar Airways has bought a 5% stake in Chinese carrier China Southern Airlines for an undisclosed sum.
The Middle Eastern airline already owns 20% of British Airways’ parent IAG, 10% of LATAM Airlines Group, 49% of Air Italy and 9.99% of Cathay Pacific.
Chairman His Excellency Mr Ali Shareef Al Emadi said Qatar regarded its investment in China Southern as ‘an important part of our strategic investment in the largest airline in one of the world’s fastest growing aviation markets’.
He added: "China Southern Airlines is one of the most prestigious airlines in the Chinese domestic market and an important market player in the world, with massive potential for cooperation in the future.~
"Given the complementary strengths and resources of each of China Southern Airlines and Qatar Airways, there are opportunities for us to work together and build a long-term relationship in ways that would bring benefits to customers of both airlines.
"The investment is a clear demonstration of Qatar Airways’ continued commitment to connecting travellers across all corners of the world in a way that is meaningful and convenient.~ Qatar Airways very much looks forward to the opportunity to deepen our working relationship with this great airline and further enhance the travel opportunities across the globe."~
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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