Qatar Airways Group has continued its strategy to invest in airlines around the world to enhance its operations and network connectivity after taking a five per cent stake in China Southern Airlines.
On 28 December 2018, the carrier completed an on-market purchase of certain A shares and H shares of China Southern Airlines Company Limited (China Southern Airlines), resulting in our aggregate holding of approximately five per cent of the total issued share capital of China Southern Airlines.
Qatar Airways’ chairman, Ali Shareef Al Emadi said the shareholding in China Southern Airlines is an “important part” of its strategic investment in the largest airline in one of the world’s fastest growing aviation markets.
Qatar Airways’ Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker said: “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.”
The stake further supports Qatar Airways’ investment strategy which already includes 20 per cent in International Airlines Group (IAG), 10 per cent in LATAM Airlines Group, 49 per cent in Air Italy and its 9.99 per cent in Cathay Pacific.
