Doha: Al-Arab newspaper highlighted the extensive Arab and international commendation for Qatar's recent diplomatic success, which adds to the nation's exemplary record in international mediation. Doha successfully facilitated the signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement.
According to Qatar News Agency, Doha acted as a neutral mediator, hosting intensive dialogue rounds between the conflicting parties. These efforts led to a commitment to a permanent ceasefire, the initiation of political dialogue, and the establishment of a framework to address the conflict's root causes, including development and governance issues.
Al-Arab also mentioned praise from the African Union for Qatar's pivotal role in reconciling viewpoints, describing the agreement as a historic step toward stability in a region beset by long-standing conflicts. The United States and the European Union similarly expressed appreciation for Qatari diplomacy, affirming Qatar's importance in promoting regional security.
The newspaper concluded by highlighting the Arab response, noting that nations such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt commended Qatar on this achievement and its efforts in supporting peace and stability at both regional and international levels. This accomplishment further enhances Qatar's track record in successful mediation, including its involvement in the Afghanistan negotiations and resolving other regional conflicts.
Al-Watan newspaper reported that while Qatar is actively engaged in mediation efforts in the Gaza Strip, it has successfully mediated the reunification of a group of Ukrainian and Russian children with their families in July. This latest group included 11 children from Ukraine and 3 from Russia, bringing the total number of children reunited since the beginning of Qatar's mediation efforts to 100.
The State of Qatar also hosted the signing ceremony of a Declaration of Principles between the Congolese Government and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement within 48 hours. HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, described this step as a reflection of Qatar's belief in dialogue as a means to resolve conflicts and its commitment to supporting peaceful efforts to end the conflict in eastern Congo.
Al-Watan affirmed Qatar's commitment to supporting political resolution pathways in coordination with the African Union, complementing the progress made with the peace agreement signed between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda in Washington on June 27. The newspaper emphasized that Qatar's intensive efforts underscore its firm belief in diplomacy as the sole means for conflict resolution.
On the domestic front, The Peninsula newspaper noted that the path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is clear after the Asian Football Confederation's draw on Thursday. Qatar's journey to the tournament will navigate through familiar territory, as Al Annabi are grouped with regional rivals UAE and Oman.
Qatar will face Oman on October 8 and the UAE on October 14 in Group A. The high-stakes play-off round offers no margin for error, and Al Annabi aim to secure back-to-back World Cup appearances following the 2022 home event. The Peninsula concluded by stating that the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 was a significant achievement, showcasing the nation's global passion and capability, with Al Annabi poised to continue building a lasting legacy.