Qatar and the United States of America have been maintaining and nurturing a strong relationship for the past several decades. In the field of trade, defence, education, science and culture, the bilateral ties have paved way for a healthy partnership resulting in mutual benefits for both the countries. In the diplomatic sector it has climbed yet another step becoming partners in bringing peace to several conflict areas in the region.
The fact that the US keeps its relations with Qatar as a valuable one was evident from the comments made recently in Doha by Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs of the US, David Schenker. The Assistant Secretary of State said that Qatar is a strong and key regional partner in countering terrorism and combating financing of terrorism, a scourge that the world find it difficult to tackle.
The official also spoke about the US-Qatar Strategic Dialogue, which is likely to be held later this month, saying that it will focus on issues including regional security and defence cooperation. The event will also discuss trade, investment, education, culture, labour rights, regional security, defence cooperation, law enforcement, counter-terrorism and collaboration to combat COVID-19 pandemic. The dialogue is expected to dwell on a broad range of issues that concern regional perspective, shared common threat perception and areas that need to be developed.
Schenker said: “The State Department applauds Qatar for the implementation of new anti-money laundering, counter terrorism-financing legislation and appreciates Qatar’s role as an active partner in the global coalition to defeat ISIS.” Schenker’s visit to Doha affirms the strong partnership between the two countries, especially in combating terrorism.
The world has recognised Qatar as a strong and active advocate of peace in the conflict-ridden region. The country is keen on extending unwavering support to peace efforts not only in the region but also in other countries. Qatar has hosted and successfully brokered several such efforts in the past and the country is still continuing with such measures even during this time of global pandemic, whether it is in Libya, Sudan or Lebanon.
The US official is travelling from Qatar to Lebanon, a country where a recent explosion resulted in unprecedented devastation leaving over 170 dead and inflicting indescribable pain on several families. Schenker praised the vital assistance Qatar provided to Lebanon since the explosion at Beirut Port, which contributed immense relief to the Lebanese people. Qatar’s partnership with one of the most powerful countries in the world will be instrumental in bringing peace and harmony to the areas of conflict through peaceful dialogue and material support. This relationship will also be mutually beneficial in sectors such as education, culture, global security and others.
