Doha: In a significant stride towards peace in the Gaza Strip, the joint mediation team consisting of Qatar, Egypt, the United States, and Turkiye has announced the initiation of the second phase of President Trump's 20-point plan to end the conflict. This phase transitions from ceasefire to disarmament, technocratic governance, and reconstruction. The announcement was made by US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff on behalf of President Trump through a post on X.
According to Qatar News Agency, the mediators expressed their approval in a joint statement regarding the formation of the Palestinian Technocratic Committee to Administer the Gaza Strip, led by Dr. Ali Abdel Hamid Shaath. This step is seen as a crucial development that aims to bolster stability and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Al-Sharq newspaper highlighted that this advancement in the Gaza agreement marks a pivotal chapter in the mediators' ongoing efforts to fully implement the agreement, striving for sustainable peace and suitable conditions for Gaza's reconstruction, thereby fulfilling the Palestinian people's aspirations for security and stability.
On another note, Al-Arab emphasized Qatar's significant support for Sudan, extending beyond humanitarian aid to include political, diplomatic, and developmental efforts. The newspaper detailed Qatar's initiatives, such as an air bridge for delivering aid and a $2 million agreement with the UN Refugee Agency to support Sudanese refugees in South Sudan.
Politically, Qatar has consistently reaffirmed its support for Sudan's unity and sovereignty, rejecting interference in its internal affairs and advocating for a peaceful resolution through dialogue. This stance underscores Qatar's focus on the Sudanese people's interests and preventing the country's fragmentation.
Meanwhile, The Peninsula discussed Qatar's leadership in the global liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, underpinned by its North Field expansion program. Qatar aims to increase its LNG production capacity from 77 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 126 MTPA by the mid-2020s, enhancing its export capabilities.
The paper noted that these expansions align with Qatar's broader economic strategy, supporting the National Vision 2030 to diversify the economy beyond hydrocarbons. The Peninsula concluded that Qatar's LNG expansion exemplifies strategic planning, securing long-term economic prosperity.