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Qatar and Belgium have taken significant steps to bolster their economic ties, as highlighted during the Qatar-Belgium Business Meeting in Doha. The event, spearheaded by Qatar Chamber and 'hub.brussels', brought together key figures from both nations to discuss investment opportunities across various sectors. With a trade volume reaching QAR 4.6 billion last year, the meeting underscored the potential for further growth in bilateral relations, particularly in healthcare, education, and technology.
Meanwhile, Qatar is set to make a splash at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 in Dubai, showcasing its rich tourism offerings. Visit Qatar's pavilion, spanning 600 square meters, will feature interactive experiences highlighting the country's cultural heritage and modern attractions. This participation aligns with Qatar's National Tourism Strategy, aiming to foster sector collaboration and attract global investment.
The enduring partnership between Qatar and the United Kingdom serves as a testament to Qatar's role as a reliable ally on the global stage. Over the past decade, the relationship has deepened, with Qatar's investments in the UK spanning retail, hospitality, and construction, contributing significantly to the UK economy. This partnership exemplifies the mutual benefits of international cooperation and the importance of nurturing such alliances.
As Qatar continues to expand its global footprint, its efforts in strengthening economic, tourism, and diplomatic ties reflect its commitment to fostering international collaboration. Whether through business meetings, tourism exhibitions, or strategic partnerships, Qatar is positioning itself as a key player in the global arena, offering opportunities for growth and mutual prosperity.

Shed Seven, the Yorkshire Britpop legends, have announced a special one-off summer 2026 performance at Halifax's Piece Hall to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their landmark 1996 album 'A Maximum High'. The band will deliver a full album performance followed by a second set of greatest hits during the Live At The Piece Hall concert series on June 6. This Halifax date will represent Shed Seven's only headline show of summer 2026, making it a particularly significant event for both the band and their dedicated fanbase.
The anniversary concert will feature special guest performances from Seb Lowe and The Guest List, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Tickets for this exclusive event are scheduled to go on general sale at 10am on Friday, October 24, available through major ticketing platforms including Ticketmaster, Live Nation, and the Piece Hall's official website. The band's return to the Halifax venue follows their previous 2021 performance at the historic courtyard, establishing a continuing relationship with the West Yorkshire location.
'A Maximum High' represented a defining moment in Shed Seven's career, reaching the UK top 10 and selling more than 250,000 copies while spawning five Top 40 singles. Band frontman Rick Witter expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming celebration, stating the band is 'looking forward to giving A Maximum High the birthday party it deserves' and noting particular excitement about 'revisiting some of the songs we haven't played for decades.' The event promises to attract fans from across the country for what organizers describe as a 'one night only' celebratory event.
Shed Seven joins a diverse lineup of artists scheduled for the 2026 Live At The Piece Hall series, including Embrace, Ethel Cain, David Gray, Billy Ocean, Opeth and The Ks. The band's upcoming schedule also includes appearances at the Isle Of Wight Festival in June, featuring headliners Lewis Capaldi, Calvin Harris and The Cure, followed by a supporting performance for Richard Ashcroft at Englefield Estate in Berkshire as part of the Heritage Live series in July. Nicky Chance-Thompson MBE DL, CEO of The Piece Hall Charitable Trust, emphasized the significance of hosting these 'Yorkshire heroes' back at the venue for this milestone celebration.