Qatar Airways has confirmed it has increased its stake in International Airlines Group (IAG) to 20.01 per cent from a 15.67 per cent shareholding. The Middle East carrier has stated that its interest in IAG is purely financial but reiterates the fact that the increased shareholding reflects the strength of commercial and strategic ties between the companies and evidences the continued support for the ongoing strategy of IAG. "The recent market valuation of one of the world's leading airline groups has provided what we believe is an attractive opportunity to increase our shareholding in IAG. We continue to be highly supportive of IAG's strategy and management team and we do not intend to increase our percentage shareholding further unless there are material changes to the current situation," said Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief Executive of Qatar Airways.