The US elections and the accompanying media momentum, campaigns, enthusiasm, partisan festivals and debates make the process one of the most exciting electoral activities that every four years draw attention of global public with no exception.
This is also because of the political and economic status of the US as an undisputed superpower since the end of the Cold War, along the influential and effective role of its leadership in achieving peace, security and stability in various parts of the world.
President Joe Biden took the oath of office yesterday, becoming the 46th President of the United States, and he made history with having Kamala Harris, the first woman as Vice-President.
Expectations and reactions to the new administration may vary in a region like the Middle East where issues are complex and intertwining.
For Qatar, as a close ally to the US, change in administration could be a routine, that may not affect the status of the friendship of the two countries therefore, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was among the first to congratulate President H E Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris wishing them continued success and looks forward to new heights in the friendship of the two countries.
While welcoming the new US administration, it can be said that there are much to be expected from the new administration, especially that the controversial personality of President Trump was reflected on his country’s foreign policies. As he tried to reward allies and antagonising those who disagreed with his vision, even they are loyal allies to the US and safeguarding its interests.
There are many complex issues of the region awaiting the Biden Administration for resolving, foremost of which is reducing tension in the Gulf with Iran, rebuilding trust with allies, not only in the Gulf, but even its oldest European allies, in view of economic protectionism that has hurt the global economy amid the coronavirus.
There are other crises in the region that are no less important than the dispute with Iran over nuclear agreement, such as the war in Yemen and the humanitarian crisis, the civil war in Syria, Libya and Afghanistan. The policy of rewarding allies and punishing opponents pursued by President Trump inflicted great damage to the Palestinian cause, and the incoming administration is expected to change the approach that Trump had taken to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
All are optimistic and excited about the new era beginning with Biden’s administration, realising the importance of US position in the world, and the importance of its role in global peace and stability.
