Doha: He Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, emphasized that mediation is a foundational pillar of Qatar's foreign policy. Qatar has taken on the role of mediator in resolving various regional and international conflicts at the request of many of its global friends and partners.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Khulaifi, speaking at the Doha Forum 2025 during a session titled "Global Governance and Multilateralism, Global South Cooperation: Paths to Prosperity in Latin America: The Role of Cross-Regional Diplomacy," remarked that Qatar's mediation approach transcends geographical boundaries. Its efforts extend globally, driven by the belief in building bridges and narrowing divides between warring parties. Despite the challenges, Qatar has successfully embedded principles of neutrality and confidence-building while creating innovative initiatives to bring disputing parties to the negotiating table.
Dr. Al Khulaifi highlighted Qatar's mediation between Palestinians and Israelis as one of its most complex responsibilities. He also noted Qatar's strategic policy in Latin America, pointing to successful mediation efforts, such as facilitating a prisoner exchange between the US and Venezuela in 2023. This further enhanced Qatar's reputation in Latin America.
Qatar's role as a mediator has led to increased requests for its involvement, including recent mediation in Colombia in partnership with Norway, Spain, and Switzerland. Dr. Al Khulaifi referenced the "Commitment to Peace" agreement signed by the Colombian government and the EGC group, following talks in Doha, as an example of Qatar's effective mediation efforts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for the constructive attitude of the parties involved and emphasized the importance of fully implementing agreements. It also acknowledged the contributions of international partners in the process.
Dr. Al Khulaifi explained the necessity of transnational diplomacy in today's global context, emphasizing the reliance on trusted international partners for successful mediation, particularly in Latin America. He stressed the absence of a one-size-fits-all mediation model, citing Qatar's 25 years of experience in mediating various disputes, including the 2020 agreement between the United States and the Taliban.
The Minister affirmed the role of a mediator in bringing parties closer and assisting in implementing agreements, praising Qatar's partnerships with nations like Norway, Switzerland, and Spain in supporting international mediation efforts. He noted that Qatar has signed memoranda of understanding related to mediation, recognizing the need for cooperation among multiple mediators for effective outcomes.
Dr. Al Khulaifi concluded by affirming Qatar's commitment to its mediating role, maintaining open communication channels with all parties to pursue sustainable solutions that prioritize humanitarian considerations and contribute to building lasting peace.