Doha:Qatar supplies around one-fifth of the global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani emphasized, warning that any disruptions in the country have swift repercussions on international markets and consumers.
According to Anadolu Agency, the emir addressed the Shura Council, outlining Qatar's key responsibilities during the current regional crisis. These responsibilities include protecting its sovereignty, fulfilling its role in global energy and economic security, and maintaining open diplomatic channels.
The emir elaborated on Qatar's strategic approach, which involves defending the nation without engaging in war, maintaining essential services and economic activities, supporting ceasefire efforts, and promoting negotiations for peaceful resolutions. He reported disruptions in Qatar's exports due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to energy facilities in Ras Laffan Industrial City, with the economic impact mainly affecting the energy sector.
In response to drone attacks in March that targeted energy facilities in Mesaieed and Ras Laffan, QatarEnergy halted LNG production. Qatar's Defense Ministry attributed these attacks to drones originating from Iran. Despite these challenges, Sheikh Tamim confirmed that expansion work on Qatar's North Field gas development and the Golden Pass LNG project in the US is progressing as planned, alongside QatarEnergy's international investments and partnerships.
The emir also condemned attacks by Iran as violations of Qatar's sovereignty and international law, affirming that Qatari forces are fulfilling their defensive duties. He underscored Qatar's commitment to dialogue and peaceful solutions, emphasizing the importance of national defense in preventing the expansion of war.
Highlighting recent developments, Sheikh Tamim reiterated Qatar's preference for resolving disputes through diplomacy, noting the interconnected nature of regional and global security. He called for enhanced cooperation among Gulf Cooperation Council states to ensure the security, sovereignty, and stability of the region.
The emir stressed the need for continued efforts to secure navigation in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz and to protect vital energy, water, and infrastructure. The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of international diplomacy due to ongoing disruptions in maritime traffic and energy flows amid the conflict between Iran and the US.
The conflict escalated on February 28 when the US and Israel launched a war against Iran, prompting Tehran's missile and drone attacks and leading to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A US naval blockade on Iranian ports followed. Although a memorandum of understanding on navigation in the strait was signed in June, its implementation has stalled due to security disagreements.