The State of Qatar has strongly condemned the genocide being committed against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, describing it as a clear example of the breakdown of international relations and the lack of adherence to the rule of law. This statement was delivered by HE Dr Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, at the 68th session of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s General Conference in Vienna. Dr Al Hammadi emphasized the importance of promoting the rule of law and democracy in international relations, strengthening multilateralism, and supporting international organizations to ensure global security.
In his speech, Dr Al Hammadi called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and reiterated the need for the Palestinian people to exercise their right to self-determination and establish an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital. He highlighted the failure of policies such as occupation, genocide, forced displacement, and collective punishment in resolving conflicts, stressing the importance of pursuing peaceful solutions to achieve lasting peace in the region. Dr Al Hammadi also criticized Israel’s refusal to join the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), calling for greater efforts to establish a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East.
Despite the challenges facing the region, Dr Al Hammadi expressed hope in the victory of pluralism and the rule of law in international relations. He praised the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the IAEA as examples of institutions that promote peace and cooperation through the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology. Dr Al Hammadi highlighted the IAEA’s role as a vital bulwark against nuclear proliferation and its efforts to support member states in developing nuclear applications for sustainable growth. He also announced Qatar’s commitment to supporting the agency’s initiatives, including a contribution of USD 600,000 to its general resources.
Dr Al Hammadi highlighted the progress made by Qatar in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology, particularly in the areas of health, environment, food, industry, and agriculture. He praised the technical cooperation program between Qatar and the IAEA, which provides training, support, consultations, and field visits to enhance national capacities in nuclear and radiation security and safety. Dr Al Hammadi emphasized the importance of responding to nuclear and radiation emergencies to safeguard human health and the environment from potential hazards.
Overall, Dr Al Hammadi’s speech at the IAEA General Conference underscored Qatar’s commitment to promoting the rule of law, democracy, and multilateralism in international relations. He called for urgent action to address the crisis in Gaza, support the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, and advance peace and security in the Middle East. Qatar’s support for the IAEA’s initiatives reflects its dedication to using nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes and sustainable development. In a time of global uncertainty, Qatar’s stance on international cooperation and peacebuilding is a beacon of hope for a more peaceful and prosperous future.
