Qatar’s Participation in UN Group of Friends of Mediation
Qatar recently participated in the 14th ministerial meeting of the UN Group of Friends of Mediation, chaired by Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, focused on the theme of strengthening mediation in a changing conflict environment. Qatar’s achievements in the field of mediation were highlighted, showcasing the country’s efforts in promoting peace, security, and stability in regions such as Afghanistan, Lebanon, Sudan, the Horn of Africa, Chad, Venezuela, and Ukraine.
Qatar’s commitment to preventive diplomacy and mediation was emphasized by Dr. Al Khulaifi, stating that these are the most effective means of resolving conflicts, as outlined in the United Nations Charter. He highlighted Qatar’s success in mediation, attributing it to the country’s constitution, which prioritizes promoting international peace and security through peaceful conflict resolution methods. Qatar’s neutral approach, focusing on the rights of conflicting parties, has led to an increase in demand for its mediation efforts. The country’s dedication to addressing post-conflict challenges, such as peacebuilding and state-building, through development and humanitarian efforts, has further enhanced its success in the field of mediation.
The Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the importance of the Group of Friends of Mediation, in collaboration with the United Nations, in light of escalating conflicts and changing geopolitical dynamics threatening global peace and security. He specifically addressed the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip and occupied Palestinian territories, which has led to an escalation of tensions in Lebanon and across the region. Emphasizing the need to halt the bloodshed, he highlighted Qatar’s efforts in cooperation with Egypt and the United States to achieve an immediate and complete ceasefire in Gaza. The Minister stressed the urgent need for a new path to peace that guarantees the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination in line with relevant UN resolutions, calling for support from regional and global partners to use their influence to achieve this goal.
In conclusion, Qatar’s active participation in the UN Group of Friends of Mediation reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability through diplomatic efforts and mediation. The country’s success in mediation, guided by its constitution and neutral approach, has garnered increasing demand for its services in resolving conflicts. Qatar’s deep understanding of the root causes of conflict and cultural sensitivities has further enhanced its effectiveness in mediation. The Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the need for collective action from regional and global partners to address escalating conflicts and uphold international peace and security. Through continued cooperation with the United Nations and other partners, Qatar is dedicated to playing a key role in resolving conflicts and advancing peacebuilding efforts on a global scale.