Ankara: The State of Qatar actively participated in the ministerial meeting of the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI) alongside NATO member states, which took place on the sidelines of the NATO Summit in Ankara, Turkiye. Leading Qatar's delegation was HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi.
According to Qatar News Agency, during his remarks, Dr. Al Khulaifi underscored the critical timing of the meeting, emphasizing the increasing complexity of security and political challenges that now require unified efforts and enhanced coordination. He highlighted the interconnected nature of these challenges, which impact the security of Middle Eastern countries and pose threats to regional and international stability.
His Excellency noted the recent dangerous escalation in the Middle East, stressing the severe risks associated with military escalation. He advocated for prioritizing diplomacy, dialogue, and collective efforts to maintain regional peace and stability. Dr. Al Khulaifi reaffirmed Qatar's dedication to diplomacy and dialogue, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation and building on the agreements achieved between the United States and Iran to bolster regional and international security.
Qatar, in coordination with Pakistan and other partners, has intensified its mediation efforts to uphold ceasefires, facilitate dialogue, and encourage confidence-building measures among conflicting parties. Dr. Al Khulaifi emphasized that sustainable security is achievable not through military means alone but through diplomacy and dialogue, positioning Qatar as a trusted mediator in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
His Excellency further highlighted Qatar's open communication channels, even in times of tension, enabling effective mediation both regionally and internationally. Doha's ongoing dialogue initiatives aim to resolve conflicts peacefully, contributing to sustainable peace and economic growth.
Qatar places significant importance on its cooperation with NATO under the ICI framework, launched in 2004. Dr. Al Khulaifi noted Qatar's consistent support for enhancing practical cooperation with NATO, aiming to promote dialogue, build capacities, and address mutual security concerns through joint initiatives.
He announced an agreement on the Individually Tailored Partnership Program (ITPP) between Qatar and NATO and revealed that the final stage of establishing a regional center for peace support operations in Qatar, under NATO's auspices, is nearing completion.