Palmyra, (SANA)-President Bashar al-Assad and Emir Hamad Ben Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar, who is on a special visit to Syria, inaugurated Thursday the podium of the Camel racetrack in the historic Syrian city of Palmyra.

The event comes within the activities of Palmyra Festival for Culture and Arts and in light of President al-Assad and Emir of Qatar's care about heritage, originality, Arab culture and their continuous encouragement of the Camel racing sports.

This activity also reflects the distinguished fraternal relations connecting Syria and Qatar as well their commitment to promote these ties in the interest of both peoples.

At the end of the race, the President and the Emir handed prizes to the first winners.

Upon their arrival at the podium of the racetrack , President al-Assad and Emir of Qatar listened to an explanation on the most important projects and investment studies prepared by Al-Diyar Qatari company in Palmyra and other Syrian cities that come in line with the culture and tourist development Syria witnesses under the leadership of President al-Assad.

Minister of tourism Sa'adallah Agha al-Qala and Governor of Homs attended the opening of the festival.

The Festival includes the opening of the Syrian-Qatari Heritage market and shows for Syrian popular art bands in additon to bedouin songs.  

Mazen