According to reports, Qatar and Belgium are expected to sign an agreement to end double taxation on goods this year, according to the Belgian foreign minister Karel de Gucht, who visited Qatar last week.

Diamonds in particular represent a fast-rising element of exports, according to Belgium's new ambassador to Qatar Guy De Lauwer.

Belgium's exports to Qatar, where it recently opened an embassy, are predicted to show a rise of two-thirds to $250 million (�190 million) in 2006. Prince Philippe of Belgium is expected to visit Qatar with a trade delegation in the second half of this year at which time an investment protection agreement is expected to be signed, according to de Gucht.

De Lauwer said that there were efforts underway to arrange for direct flights between the countries as well.