Doha: The State of Qatar is actively engaged in diplomatic initiatives aimed at fostering peace and stability in the region, according to Al-Sharq newspaper. The country is involved in extensive consultations and coordination, particularly concerning the ceasefire between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as efforts to de-escalate tensions. His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, has held a series of diplomatic meetings and phone calls, including recent discussions with Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates, and Dr. Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs. He also met with Kazakhstan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yermek Kosherbayev, who is currently visiting Qatar.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al-Sharq emphasized Qatar's dedication to promoting international peace and security while ensuring global energy and food supplies. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani conveyed a firm message to Iran, urging the opening of maritime corridors to ensure freedom of navigation, and stressed that these corridors should not be used as leverage or bargaining tools.
Al-Watan newspaper reported that the cancellation of the US President's envoys' visit to Pakistan for talks with Iranian officials should not be interpreted as a precursor to renewed conflict. The paper urged all parties to engage positively with mediation efforts to address the crisis's root causes through peaceful dialogue, aiming for a sustainable agreement that prevents further escalation. During a recent meeting in Doha, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani and Yermek Kosherbayev discussed regional developments, focusing on the ceasefire between the US and Iran and de-escalation efforts to enhance regional security.
The newspaper highlighted the situation in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes have caused significant displacement in southern regions following military actions authorized by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Al-Watan stressed that the violence comes after a fragile truce beginning on April 16, which Israel violated, resulting in thousands of casualties and displacements. The paper called for international intervention to halt the violence and protect civilians.
Domestically, The Peninsula newspaper spotlighted Qatar's commitment to nurturing national talent. According to The Peninsula, recent legislative measures aim to increase Qatari workforce participation in the private sector, creating new employment opportunities for Qataris and the children of Qatari women. The Ministry of Labour has launched the National Strategy for an Effective and Highly Productive Workforce 2024-2030, with a goal to raise Qatari employment in the private sector from 17% to 20%. Additionally, the Qatar Nationalization Award for the Private Sector, open for registration until May 9, 2026, seeks to encourage excellence and innovation within the national workforce.
The Peninsula concluded by highlighting the award's focus on showcasing Qatari talent, recognizing leadership and innovation, and rewarding organizations achieving nationalization targets. The initiative celebrates individual and organizational excellence across various fields and economic sectors, marking significant progress in Qatar's workforce nationalization efforts.