Qatar is entering its fourth month of social, economic, and diplomatic blockade.  Though we remain under the conditions of the blockade, Qatar has continued to focus on the pillars of development outlined in our National Vision 2030, as well as strengthening US-Qatar ties. We have accomplished much this past month.  To that end, I’d like to highlight a few:

 

• HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, participated in the official opening and inauguration of Hamad Port in Umm Al Houl, Qatar. Hamad Port is the largest port in Qatar, and with its modern shipping technologies, I look forward to the Port becoming a leader in trade for many years to come.

 

• Qatari Special Forces participated in joint training activities with the U.S. Air Force, strengthening our security relationship in the Gulf. Qatar remains a strategic ally of the U.S. Air Force at Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, and exercises like these ensure continued collaboration between our nations.

 

• We have continued working to prepare for the 2022 World Cup, and very recently revealed the proposed state-of-the-art design for Al Thumama Stadium. Al Thumama will be one of the largest World Cup Stadiums in existence upon completion, and will hold over 40,000 spectators once opened for the World Cup in 2022.

 

In the past month I’ve had the chance to travel to several major cities in the United States to better promote our relationships around the country first-hand. My trip came just before a time that has been so difficult for our American friends, as Texas and its neighboring states begin rebuilding from the tragedy of Hurricane Harvey. It pained me deeply to have seen the suffering and loss inflicted by the storm, and on behalf of the State of Qatar, you have my commitment that we will stand by our friends during this difficult time. I have been in communication with Governor Abbott, Mayor Turner and other state and federal officials and Qatar has pledged $30 million to the Harvey Fund towards disaster relief and recovery efforts, supporting communities that have been most affected by Hurricane Harvey.

 

We continue to appreciate the support received during the blockade against our country; and remain thankful to the United States for its diplomatic role in encouraging resolution of the crisis. As we head into 72nd Session the United Nations General Assembly this September, Qatar remains committed to the principals of international law of the UN, and to working towards the common goal of international peace and stability that UN membership embodies.