While the Gulf crisis heads into its tenth month, Qatar has opted to strengthen its relations with the European Union and NATO.
An agreement for cooperation in security and military issues between the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and Qatar was signed by NATO Deputy Secretary-General NATO Rose Gottemoeller and Qatar Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani in Brussels.
The Emir HH Sheik Tamim bin Hamad al Thani and North Atlantic Treaty Organization Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg witnessed the historic signing. Both sides exchanged views regarding the promotion of international security and peace. Political developments and challenges faced by the region, and the world, as a whole was also discussed.
Stoltenberg thanked the Emir for Qatar’s efforts and role in fighting terrorism, particularly the use of Al Udeid Air Base.
Qatar, ironically, was under fire several months ago after it was accused by other Gulf countries of funding terrorist activities. This, of course, was one of the reasons of the blockade which saw Saudi, Egypt, Bahrain and the UAE severe its ties with Qatar. The country, denied the allegations and has since declared that the blockade was an attempt against Qatar’s sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the Emir also witnessed the agreement signing between the Europeans External Action of the European Union and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The cooperation agreements were signed by Federica Mogherini, High representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.
The agreement aims to strengthen dialogue development and mutual understanding between both sides through an open exchange of information and consultation. Also discussed in the meeting were views regarding urgent international issues, development in the Middle East, particularly when it comes to refugees and immigration.
Source:
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