Opening of the sixth strategic dialogue between Qatar and the United States of America in Washington (Anadolu Agency)
Today, Tuesday, the sixth strategic dialogue between the State of Qatar and the United States of America opened in Washington, and the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani discussed, with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, the relations between the two countries, and the situation in Gaza and the region.
During the opening speech, the Qatari Prime Minister said that this dialogue represents a milestone in the historical partnership between them, valuing the diverse range of areas in which the two countries cooperate, including defense, regional stability and business.
He explained to Al Jazeera that he discussed with Blinken efforts to stop the war in Gaza, release all detainees, and allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Strip. He said, “We hope to reach a ceasefire before the month of Ramadan.”
He warned against exploiting the aid issue for political blackmail by Israel, and added that there are talks in Cairo, but it cannot be said that a final agreement has been reached.
For his part, Blinken expressed his gratitude for Qatar's regional role, especially in the humanitarian truce negotiations in the Gaza Strip.
He added that there is a good opportunity to reach an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, return detainees, and increase the entry of aid into Gaza, noting that "the responsibility lies with the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) to decide whether it is ready to participate in this ceasefire."
The two sides also committed to pushing for a peaceful solution in Yemen and condemning the attacks against commercial ships in the Red Sea.
In another context, the Qatari Prime Minister stressed that the economic relations between the two countries are getting stronger with the noticeable increase in bilateral trade, pointing out that the United States remains a major trading partner and direct foreign investor in the State of Qatar.
He explained that this year's dialogue includes new sessions to emphasize the changing landscape of global challenges and cooperation, including emerging technology, strategic policy planning and strategic communications.
Source: Al Jazeera + agencies