His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani’s speech comes at a pivotal moment in Qatar’s history and that of the region. Unity is key both at a national and regional level to mitigate risks and ensure solidarity against geopolitical threats.

The fact that Qatar is playing a significant role in defusing conflicts through mediation is grounds for international co-operation between peace-loving countries. Trade and global prosperity ultimately depend on peace and security and given how interconnected the world is today, the need for close co-operation between countries to achieve such a goal is crucial. The UK is a permanent member of the Security Council and a strategic partner of Qatar on a number of fronts and our collective effort is vital for the prosperity of our region and the world at large.

The global trend is marred with dangers and geopolitical tensions that affect all facets of life. His Highness the Amir’s speech clearly outlines a vision out of this mess and one that saves lives and builds communities and unity among nations.

Qatar’s foreign policy is based on extending its friendship to all and ensuring that peace and prosperity are maintained for the well-being of our societies. No one will be immune from the negative consequences of imbalanced competition among the global players and thus it is in our national interest to prevent such deterioration. We were created as nations and peoples to know one another so we can live in peace and mutual respect.

The main priority on a domestic level is to ensure justice among the citizens of Qatar through fair representation, unity, and social cohesion. This will ensure that we provide all the potential to all citizens without exception and act as the basis for strength and we chart forward in time.

Internationally, the priority is to prevent further bloodshed and stop the carnage and plunder levelled against our brothers and sisters in Palestine and Lebanon by Israel. Also to set a clear political horizon for a Palestinian statehood that is sovereign, secure, and free.