Qatar Airways has acquired a five per cent stake in China Southern Airlines, as part of its strategy to invest in “strongest” airlines around the world and enhancing its network connectivity.
This latest investment marks an important part of Qatar Airways’ strategic investment in “the largest airline in one of the world’s fastest growing aviation markets”, stated Ali Shareef Al Emadi, chairman of the Gulf carrier.
Qatar Airways’ group chief executive Akbar Al Baker 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.”
According to a Bloomberg report, this investment makes Qatar Airways the fourth largest shareholder of the Chinese carrier.
The latest development further supports Qatar Airways’ investment strategy, including its 20 per cent investment in International Airlines Group, its 10 per cent investment in LATAM Airlines Group, its 49 per cent investment in Air Italy and its 9.99 per cent investment in Cathay Pacific.
