Qatar successfully reunited 10 Ukrainian children and 4 Russian children with their families as part of its mediation efforts to bring together children affected by the war between Russia and Ukraine. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been working on this mediation for months, resulting in the reunification of a total of 48 children. These efforts have been praised for ensuring the safe return of children to their families and shielding them from the impacts of war, with children first received at the Qatari Embassy in Moscow before being reunited with their families.
Minister of State for International Cooperation HE Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater led the negotiations and mediation efforts, with support from authorities in both Russia and Ukraine. A health and social care program is being conducted for the children in Doha, with representatives from both countries present. The importance of protecting children from conflict impacts was emphasized, contrasting with ongoing violence in Gaza and Lebanon where children have become targets amidst massacres and violence.
Qatari citizens will soon be able to travel to the United States without a visa, following Qatar’s inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program. This reflects the strong strategic relationship between the two countries and Qatar’s recognition as a leading country in the region in security and safety. Similar visa exemptions have been announced by Japan and Uzbekistan for Qatari citizens, showcasing the strength of the Qatari passport for visa-free access and ease of travel.
In addressing the ongoing situation in Lebanon, Qatar has joined other countries in calling for a ceasefire to halt the conflict. Communication with all parties and partners is ongoing to de-escalate tensions and reach a ceasefire, with the international community urged to act to stop the war and prevent further violence. The situation in Lebanon is deemed unjustifiable, representing a full-scale war with significant casualties, necessitating immediate action for peace.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been active in facilitating travel for Qatari citizens and strengthening the Qatari passport’s standing in terms of visa-free access and travel ease. Efforts continue to de-escalate the conflict in Lebanon and halt the violence, with a focus on ending the war in Gaza as well. There is a call for the international community to hold Israel accountable for preventing aid access and using food and medicine as weapons in conflicts affecting innocent civilians.
In conclusion, Qatar’s mediation efforts have successfully reunited children affected by the war between Russia and Ukraine with their families. The ongoing efforts to achieve peace, secure visa exemptions for Qatari citizens, and call for a ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza demonstrate Qatar’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the region. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to play a crucial role in facilitating diplomatic relations and addressing humanitarian concerns amidst conflicts in the region.
