Brussels: The State of Qatar participated in the 10th meeting of Permanent Representatives to the League of Arab States and Ambassadors of the Political and Security Committee of the Council of the European Union (EU), held today in Brussels. The State of Qatar's delegation was headed by Acting Charge d'Affaires at the Embassy of the State of Qatar to the Arab Republic of Egypt and Permanent Representative to the League of Arab States, Maryam Ahmed Al Shaibi.
According to Qatar News Agency, the meeting focused on enhancing the Arab-European dialogue and strengthening political and security consultation channels amid the rapid regional and international developments. Discussions included key issues like the Palestinian situation and developments in Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen, alongside security concerns in the Red Sea, water security, migration, refugees, displaced persons, and the Ukrainian crisis and its impact on regional and international security.
In her address, Al Shaibi reiterated Qatar's commitment to supporting the Palestinian people through diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. She highlighted Qatar's mediation efforts, in coordination with Egypt and the United States, which have facilitated truces, exchanges of prisoners and hostages, and humanitarian aid entry into Gaza. The Sharm El Sheikh Peace Summit was noted as a significant milestone resulting in a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.
Al Shaibi expressed gratitude to regional and international partners for their collaboration, reiterating Doha's dedication to achieving a just and sustainable peace for the Palestinians. She emphasized that humanitarian efforts are integral to political solutions, urging international action to address the crisis in Gaza by ending aggression.
Highlighting Qatar's role as a mediator, Al Shaibi underscored the importance of diplomatic conflict resolution, particularly in alleviating the situation in Gaza and facilitating the return of displaced persons.
Regarding the Russian-Ukrainian crisis, Al Shaibi affirmed Qatar's consistent stance on prioritizing peaceful and diplomatic solutions. She noted Qatar's belief that the conflict should be resolved through dialogue, international law, and respect for sovereignty rather than military means.
The humanitarian aspect was a focal point for Qatar, which has provided USD 100 million in aid to Ukraine, supporting health and educational infrastructure, clean water provision, mine clearance, and agricultural land rehabilitation. Qatar also granted 50 scholarships to Ukrainian students and facilitated the reunion of children with their families. In April 2024, Qatar welcomed Ukrainian families into a care and support program, contributing to prisoner letter exchanges and documentation efforts.
Al Shaibi concluded by affirming Qatar's readiness to engage in efforts for peaceful crisis resolution, advocating for dialogue, restraint, and open communication channels to ensure security and stability.