Media reports had suggested the trip would begin as soon as Sunday and last two days
Qatar Finance Minister Ali Sherif Al Emadi was arrested for questioning over allegations of embezzlement, abuse of power and crimes related to the public sector, a statement carried by state news agency QNA said on Thursday.
An investigation is under way, the statement added.
“After reviewing documents, and their attached reports, the Attorney-General ordered the arrest of the Minister of Finance Ali Sharif Al Emadi to investigate what was mentioned in the reports of crimes related to practising public office,” a tweet by Qatar News agency said.
Emadi has been minister of finance since 2013 and sits on the board of the country’s $300 billion sovereign wealth fund, the Qatar Investment Authority.
He is also chairman of the board of directors of Qatar National Bank.
Emadi steered Qatar’s economic policies during the 2014-2015 oil price crash that prompted the tiny nation to accelerate plans to diversify the economy.
Qatar, a leading producer of liquefied natural gas, saw its economy shrink by 3.7 per cent last year due to the coronavirus crisis and lower global energy demand.
Emadi was named as 2020’s best minister in the region by The Banker, an international financial magazine that organises an annual celebration of finance ministers.
Qatar, which next year will host the soccer World Cup, has invested heavily in infrastructure over the past few years ahead of the event, which means spending on major projects is set to decrease this year, the finance ministry has said.
Media reports had suggested the trip would begin as soon as Sunday and last two days
Visitors can enjoy movies with family favourites, including ‘The Jungle Book’, ‘Jumanji’ and ‘Zootopia’ to match the wild theme every evening from 8pm
Sheikh Mohamed conveyed his congratulations to all eight honourees, recognising their inspiring efforts and significant contributions in service to society
His father thanked everyone who participated in the search mission despite the challenges posed by flooding in various parts of the emirate
It will be humid by night and Sunday morning with a probability of mist formation over some coastal and internal areas
Nearly 6,000 volunteers linked to a single support group are working tirelessly across the country to help those affected
Real estate developer MAG pledges to cover all the costs of necessary repairs for affected residents
The substantial increase in charges left many residents financially burdened, as they strive to retrieve their stranded vehicles