Strategic partnership and bilateral relations between Qatar and the United States are witnessing a qualitative leap. The Second Qatar-US Strategic Dialogue held in Doha underscores the importance of this partnership and reflects the importance of Qatar-US alliance which have been built on strong foundations over the years.
Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, during a meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, reviewed the friendship relations and strategic cooperation between Qatar and the United States in various fields and means of enhancing partnership in defence, security, economy, trade and investment, as well as the joint efforts in the field of combating terrorism and extremism.
The Strategic Dialogue included seven sessions covering the economic, commercial, cultural, education, political, defence and sports relations. Three agreements were signed in the fields of education and culture, as well as a memorandum of understanding on supporting defence activities in Al Udeid Air Base.
The two countries discussed numerous aspects of strong bilateral relations including regional security and defence cooperation, education and culture, law enforcement and counterterrorism partnerships, commercial and energy cooperation, and labor issues.
Qatar and US also reviewed the significant progress since the first Strategic Dialogue in Washington in January last year. The two countries expressed concern about the detrimental security, economic, and human impacts of the Gulf crisis on the region. Establishing a Middle East Strategic Alliance between the United States and its Gulf and regional partners were also discussed.
Qatar and the US discussed regional security, including joint efforts to defeat ISIS, finding a lasting resolution to the conflicts in Syria, Libya, and Yemen, as well as political developments in Iraq; and efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The United States recognised Qatar’s active leadership and mediation to promote peace and reconciliation among all parties in Afghanistan and Sudan. US officials lauded Qatar’s contributions in supporting the strategic US military presence in Qatar under the US Central Command.
The United States also thanked Qatar for its continued efforts to counter terrorism, counter the financing of terrorism, and prevent violent extremism in all forms.
The US praised Qatar Foundation and its affiliates for their important work on joint educational, research and cultural programs with leading American institutions, both in Doha through Education City and in the United States.
Both countries also underscored their commitment to boosting trade and investment. The two countries also emphasised on the importance of their continued partnership which benefits the interests of both countries, as well as the security and prosperity of the Gulf region.
To sum up, the Second Qatar-US Strategic Dialogue highlighted the shared commitment by Qatar and the US to advance cooperation and promote global peace and prosperity. It also indicates a long-lasting partnership and friendship.
