Why has the Welsh Government chosen not to take part in negotiations with Qatar Airways regarding the return of the Doha route, when previous First Ministers have played a substantial role?
As you know, Cardiff Airport is run at arms-length and Ministers do not now intervene, and have never intervened, in the airport’s commercial operating matters. The Airport executive team is leading on the commercial negotiations with the airline regarding the resumption of the Doha service.
Former First Ministers and Ministers have taken the opportunity when in market to support the resumption of the Doha route as part of wider programme of activities to promote Wales’ values and trade and investment opportunities with global partners like Qatar Airways in line with the Welsh Government’s International Strategy.
As stated previously, we would very much welcome the resumption of the route when the time is right for both the Airport and the operator.