Qatar still believes in a comprehensive solution to the ongoing Gulf crisis, says FM

It has been almost two years since Qatar started to be subjected to an illegal blockade by four neighbouring countries.

Despite the best efforts by Qatar and a host of other nations, the impasse has failed to pass.

However, Qatar has reiterated its belief in the need to reach a comprehensive solution to the Gulf crisis based on respect for the sovereignty of states, political independence and non-interference in internal affairs.

Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani praised the mediation efforts by the Kuwaiti Amir HH Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah and expressed hope that these noble endeavours would be successful, reported Gulf Times.

Speaking at the 40th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, he said the session was being held in the face of serious challenges to human rights in light of the increasing violations in many regions of the world, especially those experiencing armed conflicts.

“Despite the exceptional circumstances that my country is experiencing because of the illegal blockade and unilateral measures taken by the blockading countries and violations of human rights instruments, Qatar is seeing the process of development and progress thanks to its wise leadership,” he said.

He said the country had witnessed significant developments in the legislative field for the promotion and protection of human rights.

He pointed out some of these developments — accession to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the promulgation of the Law on the Regulation of Political Asylum.

Sheikh Mohamed said that within the framework of promoting rights of expatriate workers, the permanent residency law was issued and the law regulating the entry and exit of expatriates was amended, including the cancellation of exit permits.

He said a law was also passed to establish a fund to support and secure labourers, reported Qatar Tribune.

He said the Qatari cabinet had also decided to form committees to resolve labour disputes, pointing out that the efforts are on to complete the development of a national plan of action for human rights.

Qatar is keen to contribute to strengthening the capacities of the United Nations and the international community to meet the global challenges in the humanitarian and development sectors.

“In December, Qatar pledged $500m in financial support over several years to fund and support a number of UN humanitarian funds. The next phase will witness the opening of the United Nations House in Doha, which will include offices of a number of United Nations bodies that will enhance their ability to implement their regional and international activities and programmes,” he noted.

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