Qatar has no plans to normalise ties with Syria, the Gulf state's foreign minister said, after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad won a fourth term in office last week in an election derided by the opposition and the West as a farce. 
 
Qatar was among several regional states including Saudi Arabia that backed rebels in Syria's decade-old civil war. Some like the United Arab Emirates have sought to normalise ties after Assad regained control of most of the country. 
 
"So far we see nothing on the horizon for a political solution acceptable to the Syrian people ... the (regime's) approach and conduct has not changed," Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani told UK-based Al Araby television in an interview aired on Friday. 
 
"There is no motivation for us to re-establish ties with the Syrian regime at this time," Sheikh Mohammed said. "The Syrian regime is committing crimes against its people." 
 
Syria's government said that Wednesday's election shows the country is functioning normally despite the war, which has killed hundreds of thousands of people and displaced 11 million. 
 
Gulf Arab states downgraded or shut missions in Damascus in 2012 over attacks by the government on protests at the start of the conflict. 
 
The UAE re-opened its mission to Damascus in late 2018 in a bid to counter the influence of non-Arab actors like Iran, which along with Russia backs Assad, and Turkey, which backs rebels. 
 
The UAE has a charge d'affaires in Syria. Oman, one of the rare Arab countries that had maintained diplomatic ties with Damascus, sent an ambassador in 2020. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Qatar has no plans to normalise ties with Syria, the Gulf state's foreign minister said, after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad won a fourth term in office last week in an election derided by the opposition and the West as a farce.

Qatar has no plans to normalise ties with Syria, the Gulf state's foreign minister said, after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad won a fourth term in office last week in an election derided by the opposition and the West as a farce. Qatar was among several regional states including Saudi Arabia that backed rebels in Syria's decade-old civil war. Some like the United Arab Emirates have sought to normalise ties after Assad regained control of most of the country. "So far we see nothing on the horizon for a political solution acceptable to the Syrian people ... the (regime's) approach and conduct has not changed," Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani told UK-based Al Araby television in an interview aired on Friday. "There is no motivation for us to re-establish ties with the Syrian regime at this time," Sheikh Mohammed said. "The Syrian regime is committing crimes against its people." Syria's government said that Wednesday's election shows the country is functioning normally despite the war, which has killed hundreds of thousands of people and displaced 11 million. Gulf Arab states downgraded or shut missions in Damascus in 2012 over attacks by the government on protests at the start of the conflict. The UAE re-opened its mission to Damascus in late 2018 in a bid to counter the influence of non-Arab actors like Iran, which along with Russia backs Assad, and Turkey, which backs rebels. The UAE has a charge d'affaires in Syria. Oman, one of the rare Arab countries that had maintained diplomatic ties with Damascus, sent an ambassador in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar sees no reason for normalising ties with Syria, says foreign minister

Amid the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, the Taliban has agreed to begin substantive talks with the Republic team in Doha in the coming days, which would end the peace process stalemate.

According to Tolo News, the Taliban group plans to attend the Istanbul summit but wants the end negotiations to take place in Doha. The negotiating teams met in Doha on May 14 after a long pause.

Also read-&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends

Sources familiar with the meeting said the Taliban has asked to maintain the Doha negotiations--with serious discussions-- but they want the final outcome to be achieved in Doha, not in Istanbul.

Also read-&nbsp;Afghan govt delegation, Taliban discuss peace talks in Qatar&nbsp;

"I think that this will open the way for an Istanbul conference where the Taliban will attend. They might make the agenda based on who in the Afghan government team will attend, not based on the US agenda," said Sayed Akbar Agha, a former Taliban commander said to Tolo news.

The Republic team said that efforts in Doha and Istanbul will help achieve results in the negotiations, but they stressed that the Taliban's commitment is key.

"A meeting will be meaningful when the attendees include decision-makers and when there is a commitment for decision making. Only participation of high-ranking leaders can affect the current Doha process," said Fawzia Koofi, member of the negotiating team of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, a delegation representing the Taliban led by Shai Abdul Hakim Haqqani has been in Pakistan over the last 20 days discussing with the leadership of the group the details of attending the Istanbul summit and the withdrawal of international troops from Afghanistan.

"Pakistan's influence on the Taliban and the possible encouragement from Pakistan of course has an impact," said Mohammad Amin Waqad, former deputy head of the High Peace Council, as reported by Tolo news.

President Ashraf Ghani has emphasised the need for a decision on peace by the regional players, and for Europe's much-needed role to 'get Pakistan on board'&nbsp;on the ongoing peace talks with Taliban.

"Peace will primarily be decided upon regionally, and I believe we are at a crucial moment of rethinking. It is first and foremost a matter of getting Pakistan on board. The US now plays only a minor role. The question of peace or hostility is now in Pakistani hands," Ghani told the German news website, Der Spiegel, in an interview.

Over Pakistan's influence on the Taliban, Ghani said, "Pakistan operates an organized system of support. The Taliban receive logistics there, their finances are there and recruitment is there."

"The names of the various decision-making bodies of the Taliban are Quetta Shura, Miramshah Shura, and Peshawar Shura - named after the Pakistani cities where they are located. There is a deep relationship with the state," he added.

The negotiations in Doha were stalled after the announcement of a delay in US forces withdrawal in Afghanistan from the original May 1&nbsp;deadline.

Amid the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, the Taliban has agreed to begin substantive talks with the Republic team in Doha in the coming days, which would end the peace process stalemate.

Amid the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, the Taliban has agreed to begin substantive talks with the Republic team in Doha in the coming days, which would end the peace process stalemate. According to Tolo News, the Taliban group plans to attend the Istanbul summit but wants the end negotiations to take place in Doha. The negotiating teams met in Doha on May 14 after a long pause. Also read- Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends Sources familiar with the meeting said the Taliban has asked to maintain the Doha negotiations--with serious discussions-- but they want the final outcome to be achieved in Doha, not in Istanbul. Also read- Afghan govt delegation, Taliban discuss peace talks in Qatar "I think that this will open the way for an Istanbul conference where the Taliban will attend. They might make the agenda based on who in the Afghan government team will attend, not based on the US agenda," said Sayed Akbar Agha, a former Taliban commander said to Tolo news. The Republic team said that efforts in Doha and Istanbul will help achieve results in the negotiations, but they stressed that the Taliban's commitment is key. "A meeting will be meaningful when the attendees include decision-makers and when there is a commitment for decision making. Only participation of high-ranking leaders can affect the current Doha process," said Fawzia Koofi, member of the negotiating team of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Meanwhile, a delegation representing the Taliban led by Shai Abdul Hakim Haqqani has been in Pakistan over the last 20 days discussing with the leadership of the group the details of attending the Istanbul summit and the withdrawal of international troops from Afghanistan. "Pakistan's influence on the Taliban and the possible encouragement from Pakistan of course has an impact," said Mohammad Amin Waqad, former deputy head of the High Peace Council, as reported by Tolo news. President Ashraf Ghani has emphasised the need for a decision on peace by the regional players, and for Europe's much-needed role to 'get Pakistan on board' on the ongoing peace talks with Taliban. "Peace will primarily be decided upon regionally, and I believe we are at a crucial moment of rethinking. It is first and foremost a matter of getting Pakistan on board. The US now plays only a minor role. The question of peace or hostility is now in Pakistani hands," Ghani told the German news website, Der Spiegel, in an interview. Over Pakistan's influence on the Taliban, Ghani said, "Pakistan operates an organized system of support. The Taliban receive logistics there, their finances are there and recruitment is there." "The names of the various decision-making bodies of the Taliban are Quetta Shura, Miramshah Shura, and Peshawar Shura - named after the Pakistani cities where they are located. There is a deep relationship with the state," he added. The negotiations in Doha were stalled after the announcement of a delay in US forces withdrawal in Afghanistan from the original May 1 deadline.

Taliban open to Istanbul summit but wants end negotiations to take place in Doha

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza in phone calls with the Qatari, Egyptian and Saudi foreign ministers, the State Department said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Blinken and Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani discussed 'efforts to restore calm in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza in light of the tragic loss of civilian life', the State Department said.&nbsp;

The Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two officials discussed "the recent Israeli attacks on worshippers at the Al Aqsa Compound and the attack on the besieged Gaza Strip," adding that Al-Thani stressed "the need for urgent action by the international community to stop the repeated brutal Israeli attacks against civilians in Gaza and the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque."&nbsp;

In his call with Egypt's Sameh Shoukry, Blinken "reiterated his call on all parties to deescalate tensions and bring a halt to the violence, which has claimed the lives of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, including children", the State Department said in another statement.&nbsp;

Saudi state news agency SPA reported on Sunday that Blinken also had a phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud to discuss the latest developments 'in Palestine and in the region’.&nbsp;

The State Department said the two discussed "the ongoing efforts to calm tensions in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza and bring the current violence to an end."&nbsp;

Qatar's Al-Thani also held a phone call on Sunday with Shoukry, in which they reviewed 'bilateral cooperation relations and developments in Palestine’, the Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a separate statement.&nbsp;

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two ministers agreed on "the importance of working to reach an immediate ceasefire between the two sides, and they also agreed to continue coordination in the bilateral framework, as well as in regional and international ones, regarding what is in the interest of the Palestinian people and reaching a ceasefire." &nbsp;

The truce efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations have so far offered no sign of progress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza in phone calls with the Qatari, Egyptian and Saudi foreign ministers, the State Department said on Sunday.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza in phone calls with the Qatari, Egyptian and Saudi foreign ministers, the State Department said on Sunday. Blinken and Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani discussed 'efforts to restore calm in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza in light of the tragic loss of civilian life', the State Department said. The Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two officials discussed "the recent Israeli attacks on worshippers at the Al Aqsa Compound and the attack on the besieged Gaza Strip," adding that Al-Thani stressed "the need for urgent action by the international community to stop the repeated brutal Israeli attacks against civilians in Gaza and the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque." In his call with Egypt's Sameh Shoukry, Blinken "reiterated his call on all parties to deescalate tensions and bring a halt to the violence, which has claimed the lives of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, including children", the State Department said in another statement. Saudi state news agency SPA reported on Sunday that Blinken also had a phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud to discuss the latest developments 'in Palestine and in the region’. The State Department said the two discussed "the ongoing efforts to calm tensions in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza and bring the current violence to an end." Qatar's Al-Thani also held a phone call on Sunday with Shoukry, in which they reviewed 'bilateral cooperation relations and developments in Palestine’, the Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a separate statement. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two ministers agreed on "the importance of working to reach an immediate ceasefire between the two sides, and they also agreed to continue coordination in the bilateral framework, as well as in regional and international ones, regarding what is in the interest of the Palestinian people and reaching a ceasefire." The truce efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations have so far offered no sign of progress. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken discusses Gaza in calls with Qatari, Egyptian, Saudi foreign ministers 

Qatar's foreign minister has met with a top Hamas official. That's according to a statement by Qatar's Foreign Ministry on Saturday. It said Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met Hamas leader Ismail Haniya in the capital, Doha.&nbsp;

The Foreign Ministry said Sheikh Mohammed stressed the need for the international community to act urgently to stop the repeated brutal Israeli attacks against civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;

There was no mention of the Israeli strike that toppled a Gaza tower that was home to offices of both The Associated Press, Doha's Al-Jazeera satellite news network and others.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Arab League chief said on Saturday that Arab states' ambassadors to the United Nations are trying to rally international support for Palestinians amid Israeli attacks on Gaza. &nbsp;

Ahmed Aboul Gheit called upon the UN Security Council to 'fulfill its responsibilities' in holding Israel accountable in a session scheduled on Sunday to discuss the violence. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Qatar's foreign minister has met with a top Hamas official. That's according to a statement by Qatar's Foreign Ministry on Saturday. It said Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met Hamas leader Ismail Haniya in the capital, Doha.

Qatar's foreign minister has met with a top Hamas official. That's according to a statement by Qatar's Foreign Ministry on Saturday. It said Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met Hamas leader Ismail Haniya in the capital, Doha. The Foreign Ministry said Sheikh Mohammed stressed the need for the international community to act urgently to stop the repeated brutal Israeli attacks against civilians in Gaza. There was no mention of the Israeli strike that toppled a Gaza tower that was home to offices of both The Associated Press, Doha's Al-Jazeera satellite news network and others. Meanwhile, Arab League chief said on Saturday that Arab states' ambassadors to the United Nations are trying to rally international support for Palestinians amid Israeli attacks on Gaza. Ahmed Aboul Gheit called upon the UN Security Council to 'fulfill its responsibilities' in holding Israel accountable in a session scheduled on Sunday to discuss the violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar top diplomat meets Hamas' leader in Doha 

After months of stalled negotiations, the Afghan government's negotiating team and the Taliban leadership met in Doha, Qatar on Friday to discuss speeding up peace talks.&nbsp;

"Today a meeting was held in Doha between the delegations of both negotiating sides," the Afghan government's peace team said in a tweet. Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen also confirmed the news on his Twitter account.&nbsp;

"Besides Eid greetings, the two sides discussed the status quo and the speeding up of the intra-Afghan negotiations. They emphasised to continue negotiations after Eid," Taliban Spokesperson tweeted.&nbsp;

This comes as at least 12 people were killed in an explosion inside a mosque in Kabul on Friday afternoon despite a three-day ceasefire, TOLO news reported. So far, no group has taken responsibility. Taliban in a statement had denied involvement in the attack.&nbsp;

A three-day ceasefire agreed by both sides came to mark the Eid holidays, following the surge in violence in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Istanbul conference was scheduled to take place on the issue of Afghan peace in April end but it was postponed indefinitely after the Taliban declined to attend. US withdrawal from Afghanistan is underway and set to complete till September 11. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

After months of stalled negotiations, the Afghan government's negotiating team and the Taliban leadership met in Doha, Qatar on Friday to discuss speeding up peace talks.

After months of stalled negotiations, the Afghan government's negotiating team and the Taliban leadership met in Doha, Qatar on Friday to discuss speeding up peace talks. "Today a meeting was held in Doha between the delegations of both negotiating sides," the Afghan government's peace team said in a tweet. Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen also confirmed the news on his Twitter account. "Besides Eid greetings, the two sides discussed the status quo and the speeding up of the intra-Afghan negotiations. They emphasised to continue negotiations after Eid," Taliban Spokesperson tweeted. This comes as at least 12 people were killed in an explosion inside a mosque in Kabul on Friday afternoon despite a three-day ceasefire, TOLO news reported. So far, no group has taken responsibility. Taliban in a statement had denied involvement in the attack. A three-day ceasefire agreed by both sides came to mark the Eid holidays, following the surge in violence in recent weeks. Earlier, the Istanbul conference was scheduled to take place on the issue of Afghan peace in April end but it was postponed indefinitely after the Taliban declined to attend. US withdrawal from Afghanistan is underway and set to complete till September 11. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan govt delegation, Taliban discuss peace talks in Qatar 

Qatar Finance Minister Ali Sherif al-Emadi was arrested over embezzlement allegations and stripped of his duties. Trade and Industry Minister Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari will take over the responsibilities of finance minister in addition to the duties of his current role.

Qatar finance minister Al-Emadi arrested over embezzlement allegations

A Hyderabad-based woman has sought help from the state and&nbsp;central governments in locating her husband in Qatar, who has not contacted her for the last five years.

Haleema, who is a resident of Hashimabad of Bandlaguda in Hyderabad, got married to Mohammad Naveed Ahmed in January 2008.&nbsp;

In 2014, in search of work, Naveed left for Qatar and had been in regular touch with Haleema till 2016. However, since 2016, as told by Haleema, her husband has not been in touch with her and their two children.

Speaking to ANI, Haleema informed her husband left for Qatar in search of a job as a driver in 2014 and till 2016 he had been in contact with her on regular basis and used to send her money for the expenses.

It has become extremely difficult for her to look after the children as Naveed is the sole breadwinner in her family. She has now appealed to the Telangana government as well as the central government to help her in locating her husband.&nbsp;

To support Haleema and her two children, following the appeal of Amjed Ullah Khan, the spokesperson of Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), many people have come forward to help her with her expenses.

She has received Rs 56,000 in her bank account to date while other people have been helping her with groceries and other stuff.&nbsp;

A Hyderabad-based woman has sought help from the state and central governments in locating her husband in Qatar, who has not contacted her for the last five years.

A Hyderabad-based woman has sought help from the state and central governments in locating her husband in Qatar, who has not contacted her for the last five years. Haleema, who is a resident of Hashimabad of Bandlaguda in Hyderabad, got married to Mohammad Naveed Ahmed in January 2008. In 2014, in search of work, Naveed left for Qatar and had been in regular touch with Haleema till 2016. However, since 2016, as told by Haleema, her husband has not been in touch with her and their two children. Speaking to ANI, Haleema informed her husband left for Qatar in search of a job as a driver in 2014 and till 2016 he had been in contact with her on regular basis and used to send her money for the expenses. It has become extremely difficult for her to look after the children as Naveed is the sole breadwinner in her family. She has now appealed to the Telangana government as well as the central government to help her in locating her husband. To support Haleema and her two children, following the appeal of Amjed Ullah Khan, the spokesperson of Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), many people have come forward to help her with her expenses. She has received Rs 56,000 in her bank account to date while other people have been helping her with groceries and other stuff.

Hyderabad woman seeks help from government to locate her husband in Qatar

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia's&nbsp;King&nbsp;Salman invited&nbsp;Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to visit the kingdom, the emir's office said on Monday, the latest sign of improving relations between the former rivals.

Riyadh and allies broke off ties with&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;in June 2017 over claims it was too close to Iran and backed radical Islamist groups, allegations&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;has always denied.

But in January, the boycotting countries agreed to reestablish ties with&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;following a flurry of diplomatic activity by former US president Donald Trump's administration.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Ramayana, Mahabharata to become part of Saudi Arabia's school curriculum">Ramayana, Mahabharata to become part of Saudi Arabia's school curriculum</a>

The emir received a letter from&nbsp;King&nbsp;Salman "including an invitation to visit"&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, the emir's office said in a statement.

It did not say if Sheikh Tamim had accepted or when the visit would take place.

Sheikh Tamim last travelled to the kingdom in January for the summit, hosted by the&nbsp;king's son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, that led to Doha being readmitted to the regional fold.

He did not meet the&nbsp;king&nbsp;at that time.

The latest invitation was delivered by&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, who is in Doha for meetings with his Qatari counterpart.

The two discussed "Gulf unity", according to&nbsp;Qatar's foreign ministry.&nbsp;

Since the reconciliation there have been cautious steps towards normality, including the resumption of air travel between the former adversaries and the reopening of&nbsp;Qatar's sole land border with&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman invited Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to visit the kingdom, the emir's office said on Monday, the latest sign of improving relations between the former rivals.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman invited Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to visit the kingdom, the emir's office said on Monday, the latest sign of improving relations between the former rivals. Riyadh and allies broke off ties with Qatar in June 2017 over claims it was too close to Iran and backed radical Islamist groups, allegations Qatar has always denied. But in January, the boycotting countries agreed to reestablish ties with Qatar following a flurry of diplomatic activity by former US president Donald Trump's administration. Also read: Ramayana, Mahabharata to become part of Saudi Arabia's school curriculum The emir received a letter from King Salman "including an invitation to visit" Saudi Arabia, the emir's office said in a statement. It did not say if Sheikh Tamim had accepted or when the visit would take place. Sheikh Tamim last travelled to the kingdom in January for the summit, hosted by the king's son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, that led to Doha being readmitted to the regional fold. He did not meet the king at that time. The latest invitation was delivered by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, who is in Doha for meetings with his Qatari counterpart. The two discussed "Gulf unity", according to Qatar's foreign ministry. Since the reconciliation there have been cautious steps towards normality, including the resumption of air travel between the former adversaries and the reopening of Qatar's sole land border with Saudi Arabia.

Saudi King invites Qatari Emir to visit: Emir's office

Iran's Fireign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarid will visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday, his ministry announced on Saturday. This development came amid reports of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia being brokered by Iraq. The talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in Iraqi capital earlier this month were aimed at restoring relations between the two countries that were severed five years ago.

The talks were at the level of officials and not ministers.

Tehran has neither confirmed nor denied the reports saying only that it has "always welcomed" dialogue with Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has flatly denied them.

Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said Zarif's visits to Qatar and Iraq are "in the framework of developing bilateral ties (and) regional and trans-regional talks."

The Baghdad talks, brokered by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported last weekend that a first meeting had been held on April 9, with another planned for shortly after.

An Iraqi government official confirmed the meeting to AFP, while a Western diplomat said he was "briefed in advance that talks would happen" with the "purpose to help broker a better relationship between Iran and Saudi and decrease tensions".

The meetings came amid talks in Vienna between Iran and major powers on the mechanics of a US return to a landmark 2015 nuclear deal abandoned by president Donald Trump.

The talks must also address Iran's own return to full compliance with the deal, after it suspended its implementation of several key provisions in protest at Trump's reimposition of sweeping economic sanctions. 
Tehran has rejected calls by Riyadh to be involved in the nuclear negotiations, but has repeatedly stated its readiness to conduct a regional dialogue.

Tehran and Riyadh are on opposing sides in conflicts from Syria to Yemen and have had strained relations since the kingdom cut diplomatic ties in 2016.

Some Gulf states have followed Saudi Arabia in taking a tough line on Iran.

But Qatar has maintained warm relations despite the appeals of Saudi Arabia and its allies, which cited it as one of the reasons for imposing a blockade on the gas-rich emirate in 2017.

That rift now appears to have healed after Qatar was invited to a meeting in Saudi Arabia in January at which it was brought back into the regional fold. 
&nbsp;

Iran's Fireign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarid will visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday, his ministry announced on Saturday. This development came amid reports of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia being brokered by Iraq.

Iran's Fireign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarid will visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday, his ministry announced on Saturday. This development came amid reports of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia being brokered by Iraq. The talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in Iraqi capital earlier this month were aimed at restoring relations between the two countries that were severed five years ago. The talks were at the level of officials and not ministers. Tehran has neither confirmed nor denied the reports saying only that it has "always welcomed" dialogue with Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has flatly denied them. Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said Zarif's visits to Qatar and Iraq are "in the framework of developing bilateral ties (and) regional and trans-regional talks." The Baghdad talks, brokered by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported last weekend that a first meeting had been held on April 9, with another planned for shortly after. An Iraqi government official confirmed the meeting to AFP, while a Western diplomat said he was "briefed in advance that talks would happen" with the "purpose to help broker a better relationship between Iran and Saudi and decrease tensions". The meetings came amid talks in Vienna between Iran and major powers on the mechanics of a US return to a landmark 2015 nuclear deal abandoned by president Donald Trump. The talks must also address Iran's own return to full compliance with the deal, after it suspended its implementation of several key provisions in protest at Trump's reimposition of sweeping economic sanctions. Tehran has rejected calls by Riyadh to be involved in the nuclear negotiations, but has repeatedly stated its readiness to conduct a regional dialogue. Tehran and Riyadh are on opposing sides in conflicts from Syria to Yemen and have had strained relations since the kingdom cut diplomatic ties in 2016. Some Gulf states have followed Saudi Arabia in taking a tough line on Iran. But Qatar has maintained warm relations despite the appeals of Saudi Arabia and its allies, which cited it as one of the reasons for imposing a blockade on the gas-rich emirate in 2017. That rift now appears to have healed after Qatar was invited to a meeting in Saudi Arabia in January at which it was brought back into the regional fold.

Zarif to visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday

The ruling could not have been more clear.

One of soccer’s six regional bodies had engaged in discriminatory behavior against a female official by hindering her chances of getting a seat on its board and a leadership position with the sport’s global governing body, FIFA.

The official, Mariyam Mohamed, also convinced judges at sports’ top court that an influential Kuwaiti sheikh had actively interfered in elections held by the Asian Football Confederation in 2019 to achieve his desired outcome.

The full ruling, which has not been published, was obtained by The New York Times. In it, a panel at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland concluded that the inaction by Asian soccer officials over several months amounted to a “denial of justice” for Mohamed. Yet two months since the decision was announced, the effect of what appears to be a powerful denunciation of ethics breaches and a disregard for women’s rights has had all the effect of a snowball hitting a tank.

Nothing has happened.

The tainted elections will not be rerun. The men who offered Mohamed inducements to drop out have not been punished. And soccer’s leaders have taken no action.

FIFA said in an email it had no comment, even though it previously insisted it would follow up on the court’s findings with soccer officials in Asia. Asian soccer’s governing body also declined to comment, saying its leaders had nothing to add to a January statement in which they had pledged the organization would review the findings.

For Mohamed, the silence has been maddening.

“It’s just a game for them, justice denial, the same process that I was in,” she said in a phone interview. “They’re waiting for time to pass by, and hoping I get fed up. Now the verdict has come, and it’s just very sad. I don’t know where else to go now.”

Mohamed, who filed her complaints to the Asian federation’s disciplinary department in May 2019, says she initially celebrated the ruling, but came to realize it may amount to a Pyrrhic victory.

She has not been contacted by officials from the AFC, she said. Nor has she heard from ethics investigators from FIFA, even though the organization’s rules state that gender discrimination is “strictly prohibited and punishable by suspension or expulsion.”

The case and its aftermath have highlighted how power works in global sports. It shows how a tainted Gulf royal linked to other cases of corruption has been able to exert significant control over one of soccer’s largest governing bodies even though he has no official role in its affairs. And it shows how a strategy of delay can be its own kind of injustice.

Mohamed’s case had roots in FIFA’s response to its own problems with discrimination: To address a lack of women on its governing board, the organization since 2013 set aside specific seats for women, starting with one voting member in 2013 and now a minimum of one from each of FIFA’s six regional confederations.

Mohamed, a former soccer player and coach from the Maldives, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, had hoped to win the AFC’s spot in a vote in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in April 2019. It did not take her long to realize that the power brokers of Asian soccer had already decided the election’s outcome.

She filed her first complaints about the election to the Asian confederation’s disciplinary department a month later. Emails show the organization responded to her inquiries by insisting it had begun an investigation, although it appears little was done. The AFC, citing confidentiality, refused to supply any evidence of its investigation to the court.

At a hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport last July, the AFC hardly put up a defense. Its lawyers offered no witnesses to challenge Mohamed’s testimony that a top confederation official and the head of the soccer federation of Qatar had been present in a luxury hotel suite when the Kuwaiti sheikh, Ahmad al-Fahad al-Sabah, told Mohamed he had decided that his preferred candidate, Mahfuza Akhter Kiron of Bangladesh, would be elected as the AFC’s female representative to the FIFA Council.

Mohamed was told she should drop her candidacy, and do so within 24 hours. She later claimed, in testimony that went unchallenged by the AFC, that Sheikh Ahmad attempted to mollify her by saying he had so much sway in international soccer circles that he could obtain for her “any other position of her choosing at the AFC or FIFA” in exchange for her withdrawal.

By this point, Sheikh Ahmad had no official role in soccer, having resigned his position on the FIFA Council in 2017 after allegations emerged in a U.S. federal court that he had bribed Asian officials. But Mohamed’s decision to take her case to court provided a rare public glimpse into his continuing stature as a power broker in global sports through his role as the president of the Olympic Council of Asia, an organization created by his father in 1982.

At a 2013 International Olympic Committee meeting, for example, Sheikh Ahmad’s support helped Thomas Bach secure the IOC presidency and also deliver the 2020 Olympics to Tokyo. Since he was indicted in a forgery case unrelated to sports in 2018, he has “self-suspended” from two prominent Olympic roles. But his opinion still carries weight.

Before the AFC’s 2019 elections, his legal troubles did not seem to be an issue. A list of his favored candidates was distributed to AFC voters on the eve of the elections and, aware of the talks with Mohamed and of Sheikh Ahmad’s preference for a different candidate, the leaders of several federations pressured Mohamed to drop out, she said. She declined to withdraw, and lost the vote, 31-15. Every candidate on Sheikh Ahmad’s list, however, was elected to seats on the AFC’s executive board or, as in Kiron’s case, as a confederation representative to FIFA.

After reviewing the evidence presented by Mohamed and her lawyers, the CAS panel made clear in the summary of its decision that it agreed with her version of the events. The panel confirmed that the 2019 elections had breached FIFA and AFC rules on gender discrimination. It concluded that Sheikh Ahmad had tried to influence the outcome, and that the AFC had denied Mohamed justice by not making a ruling on her complaint. It did, however, also say that by not bowing out of the elections, Mohamed ensured the sheikh’s efforts to influence the election in her case were not effective.

But the court said it was powerless to order that the flawed elections be annulled, or to punish any of the individuals accused of interfering with them. Any decision on further action was for FIFA, and the AFC, to decide, the court said.

Because of the rules governing the court, the panel’s full findings have been cloaked in secrecy since the verdict was announced on Jan. 25.

“If nothing happens it is a disgrace for FIFA, the AFC, and undermines the authority of CAS indirectly,” said Miguel Maduro, the former FIFA governance head who gave evidence in Mohamed’s case. “This award and what follows tells us at once that CAS has exposed corruption at the highest level of elections in football and at the same time tells us they cannot do anything about it.”

Maduro added that at the very least, FIFA should have initiated an ethics inquiry after the ruling. To date, it has not.

Such a move, though, would be extremely sensitive for soccer’s global leadership. The FIFA official responsible for overseeing the 2019 election, Eduardo Ache, told the CAS panel that soccer’s guidelines to improve female representation were mere recommendations. The panel said Ache’s evidence suggested he was “prepared to accept any discrimination provided at least one woman was elected to FIFA.”

But pressing for discipline in the case also could be uncomfortable for FIFA’s president, Gianni Infantino, who relies on the support of national and regional soccer leaders to push his agenda. He recently spent two weeks touring Africa, for example, to ensure that his favored candidate, a South African billionaire with no high-level experience in soccer administration, was elected president of the continent’s regional confederation. And he is unlikely to press for discipline against the leader of Qatar’s soccer federation — reportedly present when Mohamed was offered inducements to step aside — or any other Asian leader a year before Qatar hosts the 2022 World Cup.

The longer the full ruling in Mohamed’s case goes unpublished, though, the more it will give the appearance soccer’s leaders are trying to brush a problematic situation under the carpet, said Johan Lindholm, a professor of law at Umea University in Sweden who has published a book on CAS.

“Whether it’s because of bad PR or there are other things going on, then you would probably want to keep it as secret as possible,” Lindholm said.

The ruling could not have been more clear. One of soccer’s six regional bodies had engaged in discriminatory behavior against a female official by hindering her chances of getting a seat on its board and a leadership position with the sport’s global governing body, FIFA.

The ruling could not have been more clear. One of soccer’s six regional bodies had engaged in discriminatory behavior against a female official by hindering her chances of getting a seat on its board and a leadership position with the sport’s global governing body, FIFA. The official, Mariyam Mohamed, also convinced judges at sports’ top court that an influential Kuwaiti sheikh had actively interfered in elections held by the Asian Football Confederation in 2019 to achieve his desired outcome. The full ruling, which has not been published, was obtained by The New York Times. In it, a panel at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland concluded that the inaction by Asian soccer officials over several months amounted to a “denial of justice” for Mohamed. Yet two months since the decision was announced, the effect of what appears to be a powerful denunciation of ethics breaches and a disregard for women’s rights has had all the effect of a snowball hitting a tank. Nothing has happened. The tainted elections will not be rerun. The men who offered Mohamed inducements to drop out have not been punished. And soccer’s leaders have taken no action. FIFA said in an email it had no comment, even though it previously insisted it would follow up on the court’s findings with soccer officials in Asia. Asian soccer’s governing body also declined to comment, saying its leaders had nothing to add to a January statement in which they had pledged the organization would review the findings. For Mohamed, the silence has been maddening. “It’s just a game for them, justice denial, the same process that I was in,” she said in a phone interview. “They’re waiting for time to pass by, and hoping I get fed up. Now the verdict has come, and it’s just very sad. I don’t know where else to go now.” Mohamed, who filed her complaints to the Asian federation’s disciplinary department in May 2019, says she initially celebrated the ruling, but came to realize it may amount to a Pyrrhic victory. She has not been contacted by officials from the AFC, she said. Nor has she heard from ethics investigators from FIFA, even though the organization’s rules state that gender discrimination is “strictly prohibited and punishable by suspension or expulsion.” The case and its aftermath have highlighted how power works in global sports. It shows how a tainted Gulf royal linked to other cases of corruption has been able to exert significant control over one of soccer’s largest governing bodies even though he has no official role in its affairs. And it shows how a strategy of delay can be its own kind of injustice. Mohamed’s case had roots in FIFA’s response to its own problems with discrimination: To address a lack of women on its governing board, the organization since 2013 set aside specific seats for women, starting with one voting member in 2013 and now a minimum of one from each of FIFA’s six regional confederations. Mohamed, a former soccer player and coach from the Maldives, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, had hoped to win the AFC’s spot in a vote in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in April 2019. It did not take her long to realize that the power brokers of Asian soccer had already decided the election’s outcome. She filed her first complaints about the election to the Asian confederation’s disciplinary department a month later. Emails show the organization responded to her inquiries by insisting it had begun an investigation, although it appears little was done. The AFC, citing confidentiality, refused to supply any evidence of its investigation to the court. At a hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport last July, the AFC hardly put up a defense. Its lawyers offered no witnesses to challenge Mohamed’s testimony that a top confederation official and the head of the soccer federation of Qatar had been present in a luxury hotel suite when the Kuwaiti sheikh, Ahmad al-Fahad al-Sabah, told Mohamed he had decided that his preferred candidate, Mahfuza Akhter Kiron of Bangladesh, would be elected as the AFC’s female representative to the FIFA Council. Mohamed was told she should drop her candidacy, and do so within 24 hours. She later claimed, in testimony that went unchallenged by the AFC, that Sheikh Ahmad attempted to mollify her by saying he had so much sway in international soccer circles that he could obtain for her “any other position of her choosing at the AFC or FIFA” in exchange for her withdrawal. By this point, Sheikh Ahmad had no official role in soccer, having resigned his position on the FIFA Council in 2017 after allegations emerged in a U.S. federal court that he had bribed Asian officials. But Mohamed’s decision to take her case to court provided a rare public glimpse into his continuing stature as a power broker in global sports through his role as the president of the Olympic Council of Asia, an organization created by his father in 1982. At a 2013 International Olympic Committee meeting, for example, Sheikh Ahmad’s support helped Thomas Bach secure the IOC presidency and also deliver the 2020 Olympics to Tokyo. Since he was indicted in a forgery case unrelated to sports in 2018, he has “self-suspended” from two prominent Olympic roles. But his opinion still carries weight. Before the AFC’s 2019 elections, his legal troubles did not seem to be an issue. A list of his favored candidates was distributed to AFC voters on the eve of the elections and, aware of the talks with Mohamed and of Sheikh Ahmad’s preference for a different candidate, the leaders of several federations pressured Mohamed to drop out, she said. She declined to withdraw, and lost the vote, 31-15. Every candidate on Sheikh Ahmad’s list, however, was elected to seats on the AFC’s executive board or, as in Kiron’s case, as a confederation representative to FIFA. After reviewing the evidence presented by Mohamed and her lawyers, the CAS panel made clear in the summary of its decision that it agreed with her version of the events. The panel confirmed that the 2019 elections had breached FIFA and AFC rules on gender discrimination. It concluded that Sheikh Ahmad had tried to influence the outcome, and that the AFC had denied Mohamed justice by not making a ruling on her complaint. It did, however, also say that by not bowing out of the elections, Mohamed ensured the sheikh’s efforts to influence the election in her case were not effective. But the court said it was powerless to order that the flawed elections be annulled, or to punish any of the individuals accused of interfering with them. Any decision on further action was for FIFA, and the AFC, to decide, the court said. Because of the rules governing the court, the panel’s full findings have been cloaked in secrecy since the verdict was announced on Jan. 25. “If nothing happens it is a disgrace for FIFA, the AFC, and undermines the authority of CAS indirectly,” said Miguel Maduro, the former FIFA governance head who gave evidence in Mohamed’s case. “This award and what follows tells us at once that CAS has exposed corruption at the highest level of elections in football and at the same time tells us they cannot do anything about it.” Maduro added that at the very least, FIFA should have initiated an ethics inquiry after the ruling. To date, it has not. Such a move, though, would be extremely sensitive for soccer’s global leadership. The FIFA official responsible for overseeing the 2019 election, Eduardo Ache, told the CAS panel that soccer’s guidelines to improve female representation were mere recommendations. The panel said Ache’s evidence suggested he was “prepared to accept any discrimination provided at least one woman was elected to FIFA.” But pressing for discipline in the case also could be uncomfortable for FIFA’s president, Gianni Infantino, who relies on the support of national and regional soccer leaders to push his agenda. He recently spent two weeks touring Africa, for example, to ensure that his favored candidate, a South African billionaire with no high-level experience in soccer administration, was elected president of the continent’s regional confederation. And he is unlikely to press for discipline against the leader of Qatar’s soccer federation — reportedly present when Mohamed was offered inducements to step aside — or any other Asian leader a year before Qatar hosts the 2022 World Cup. The longer the full ruling in Mohamed’s case goes unpublished, though, the more it will give the appearance soccer’s leaders are trying to brush a problematic situation under the carpet, said Johan Lindholm, a professor of law at Umea University in Sweden who has published a book on CAS. “Whether it’s because of bad PR or there are other things going on, then you would probably want to keep it as secret as possible,” Lindholm said.

A soccer official proved her discrimination case. No one was punished.

The Dutch government has postponed a trade mission to Qatar this month, citing concern over living conditions of migrant workers helping the tiny Gulf state to prepare for next year`s soccer World Cup. 
 
Britain`s Guardian newspaper last week reported that its calculations showed that at least 6,500 migrant workers who worked on the stadiums and other infrastructure for the World Cup have died in Qatar in the past 10 years. 
 
"This report has led to a broad discussion in Dutch society and in parliament," said Dutch foreign ministry spokesman Jeroen van Dommelen. 
 
"We have talked before with Qatar about the poor conditions for these workers, but these numbers give the discussion a new meaning. We want to hear Qatar`s response before we can think of a new date for the mission." 
 
The trade mission, which was to be held as a video conference due to coronavirus related travel restrictions, was scheduled for March 22 to April 1. 
 
Qatar had not responded yet to the Dutch government`s decision, Van Dommelen said. 
 
A majority of parties in Dutch parliament last week called on the government and King Willem-Alexander to stay away from the World Cup next year in protest against the treatment of migrant workers. 
 
Human rights group Amnesty International has repeatedly said the tournament organiser`s worker welfare standards were inadequate to prevent abuses and provide timely remedies. It has also accused soccer governing body FIFA of failing to take seriously alleged human rights abuses linked to the event. 
 
Qatar announced changes to its labour laws last August, raising the minimum wage by 25% to 1,000 riyals ($275) a month and scrapping a requirement for workers to obtain permission from their employers to change jobs. 
 
Dutch trade minister Sigrid Kaag, who is running as leader of the medium-sized centre-left D66 party in Dutch elections this month, last week said she wanted the Netherlands to boycott the World Cup, though foreign minister Stef Blok said he preferred to keep an open dialogue with Qatar. 
 
 
 
(Reporting by Bart Meijer; Editing by David Goodman) 
&nbsp;

The Dutch government has postponed a trade mission to Qatar this month, citing concern over living conditions of migrant workers helping the tiny Gulf state to prepare for next year`s soccer World Cup.

The Dutch government has postponed a trade mission to Qatar this month, citing concern over living conditions of migrant workers helping the tiny Gulf state to prepare for next year`s soccer World Cup. Britain`s Guardian newspaper last week reported that its calculations showed that at least 6,500 migrant workers who worked on the stadiums and other infrastructure for the World Cup have died in Qatar in the past 10 years. "This report has led to a broad discussion in Dutch society and in parliament," said Dutch foreign ministry spokesman Jeroen van Dommelen. "We have talked before with Qatar about the poor conditions for these workers, but these numbers give the discussion a new meaning. We want to hear Qatar`s response before we can think of a new date for the mission." The trade mission, which was to be held as a video conference due to coronavirus related travel restrictions, was scheduled for March 22 to April 1. Qatar had not responded yet to the Dutch government`s decision, Van Dommelen said. A majority of parties in Dutch parliament last week called on the government and King Willem-Alexander to stay away from the World Cup next year in protest against the treatment of migrant workers. Human rights group Amnesty International has repeatedly said the tournament organiser`s worker welfare standards were inadequate to prevent abuses and provide timely remedies. It has also accused soccer governing body FIFA of failing to take seriously alleged human rights abuses linked to the event. Qatar announced changes to its labour laws last August, raising the minimum wage by 25% to 1,000 riyals ($275) a month and scrapping a requirement for workers to obtain permission from their employers to change jobs. Dutch trade minister Sigrid Kaag, who is running as leader of the medium-sized centre-left D66 party in Dutch elections this month, last week said she wanted the Netherlands to boycott the World Cup, though foreign minister Stef Blok said he preferred to keep an open dialogue with Qatar. (Reporting by Bart Meijer; Editing by David Goodman)

Dutch postpone Qatar trade mission over World Cup worker concerns

More than 6,500 migrant workers have died since 2010 when Qatar won the hosting rights for the 2022 FIFA world cup. Many of these deaths have been listed as 'natural', even though they were triggered by extreme working conditions. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a full report.

Gravitas: The truth behind Qatar's World Cup preparations

More than 6,500 migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have died in Qatar in the last 10 years. WION brings you more.

Qatar: Inhumane conditions of Migrant workers; 6,500 migrant workers have died

Over 6,500 migrant workers from South Asian countries have died in Qatar since it won the right to host the Fifa World Cup in 2010, based on data compiled from government sources.

According to data compiled by the British news and media website Guardian, an average of 12 migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have died each week in the period between 2011 and 2020.

Government data from India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka recorded 5,927 deaths during this period, while Pakistan’s embassy in Qatar reported a further 824 deaths.

Of these, the number of Indian migrant workers who have died is 2,711 — the highest among the five nations.

Deaths from the final months of 2020 as well as from nations such as Kenya and the Philippines were not included in the total, meaning the death toll is potentially even higher.

Qatar has a migrant workforce of 20 lakh. The findings in the report, compiled from government sources, show the country’s failure to protect its migrant workforce. The devastated families who have lost their breadwinners are still struggling to gain compensation.

One of the wealthiest countries in the world, the oil-rich Gulf nation said last year it had introduced a series of reforms to improve workers' rights and conditions, such as outlawing the Kafala system that ties a worker to their employer and prevents them from leaving Qatar without their employer's permission.

Qatar’s human rights record has been the subject of scrutiny since the nation won the bid to host the international event.

Amnesty International has published a report accusing the wealthy country of lying to migrants to entice them to come work. Many workers paid hefty fees to recruitment firms hired by the Qatari government to cover transportation and accommodation. Many of them could not afford the fees so they were given loans they have to pay back.

(With inputs from agencies)

Over 6,500 migrant workers from South Asian countries have died in Qatar since it won the right to host the Fifa World Cup in 2010, based on data compiled from government sources.

Over 6,500 migrant workers from South Asian countries have died in Qatar since it won the right to host the Fifa World Cup in 2010, based on data compiled from government sources. According to data compiled by the British news and media website Guardian, an average of 12 migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have died each week in the period between 2011 and 2020. Government data from India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka recorded 5,927 deaths during this period, while Pakistan’s embassy in Qatar reported a further 824 deaths. Of these, the number of Indian migrant workers who have died is 2,711 — the highest among the five nations. Deaths from the final months of 2020 as well as from nations such as Kenya and the Philippines were not included in the total, meaning the death toll is potentially even higher. Qatar has a migrant workforce of 20 lakh. The findings in the report, compiled from government sources, show the country’s failure to protect its migrant workforce. The devastated families who have lost their breadwinners are still struggling to gain compensation. One of the wealthiest countries in the world, the oil-rich Gulf nation said last year it had introduced a series of reforms to improve workers' rights and conditions, such as outlawing the Kafala system that ties a worker to their employer and prevents them from leaving Qatar without their employer's permission. Qatar’s human rights record has been the subject of scrutiny since the nation won the bid to host the international event. Amnesty International has published a report accusing the wealthy country of lying to migrants to entice them to come work. Many workers paid hefty fees to recruitment firms hired by the Qatari government to cover transportation and accommodation. Many of them could not afford the fees so they were given loans they have to pay back. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar: 6,500 migrant workers have died in World Cup host country since 2010

Egypt and Qatar have agreed to resume diplomatic relations. With this, Egypt has become the first country to officially resume ties under an Arab deal to end a long-running dispute with Doha.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt agreed earlier this month to restore diplomatic, trade and travel ties severed in 2017 over allegations Qatar supported terrorism, a charge that Doha denies.

"The Arab Republic of Egypt and the State of Qatar exchanged, today, January 20, 2021, two official memoranda, in virtue of which the two countries agreed to resume diplomatic relations," a foreign ministry statement said on Wednesday.

On Saturday, Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said the kingdom expects to reopen its embassy in Qatar within days, and full diplomatic relations between the two would resume.

The UAE, which followed Saudi in reopening all entry points to Qatar, has said restoring diplomatic ties will take time. Bahrain has reopened its air space to Qatar, as has Egypt.

The US-backed accord to end the row was one of a series of Middle East deals by former President Donald Trump's administration aimed at building a united front against Iran.

When the boycott was announced, Egypt and its allies called on Qatar to cut ties with the Muslim Brotherhood, among other demands. Doha said the embargo aimed to curtail its sovereignty.

The Islamist group was outlawed in Egypt after then-army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi led the overthrow of the Brotherhood's Mohamed Mursi from the presidency in 2013, before being elected president himself the following year.

Much of the Muslim Brotherhood's senior leadership was jailed in Egypt but other members took refuge abroad in Qatar or its regional ally Turkey.

Egypt and Qatar have agreed to resume diplomatic relations. With this, Egypt has become the first country to officially resume ties under an Arab deal to end a long-running dispute with Doha.

Egypt and Qatar have agreed to resume diplomatic relations. With this, Egypt has become the first country to officially resume ties under an Arab deal to end a long-running dispute with Doha. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt agreed earlier this month to restore diplomatic, trade and travel ties severed in 2017 over allegations Qatar supported terrorism, a charge that Doha denies. "The Arab Republic of Egypt and the State of Qatar exchanged, today, January 20, 2021, two official memoranda, in virtue of which the two countries agreed to resume diplomatic relations," a foreign ministry statement said on Wednesday. On Saturday, Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said the kingdom expects to reopen its embassy in Qatar within days, and full diplomatic relations between the two would resume. The UAE, which followed Saudi in reopening all entry points to Qatar, has said restoring diplomatic ties will take time. Bahrain has reopened its air space to Qatar, as has Egypt. The US-backed accord to end the row was one of a series of Middle East deals by former President Donald Trump's administration aimed at building a united front against Iran. When the boycott was announced, Egypt and its allies called on Qatar to cut ties with the Muslim Brotherhood, among other demands. Doha said the embargo aimed to curtail its sovereignty. The Islamist group was outlawed in Egypt after then-army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi led the overthrow of the Brotherhood's Mohamed Mursi from the presidency in 2013, before being elected president himself the following year. Much of the Muslim Brotherhood's senior leadership was jailed in Egypt but other members took refuge abroad in Qatar or its regional ally Turkey.

Egypt and Qatar agree to resume diplomatic ties

An Australian father and son have been released after almost six months in detention on unknown charges in Qatar, multiple sources said Sunday.

Professor Lukman Thalib, 58, and his son Ismail Talib, 24, were reportedly arrested in the Qatari capital Doha by local authorities in July.

The pair have been released from Qatari custody,&nbsp;said a Doha-based source briefed on the case, who added that they flew to Turkey on January 5.

UK-based human rights organisation CAGE said they travelled there to receive medical treatment.

"As a family we were overwhelmed with joy when we heard my father and brother were being released. We really couldn't believe it," Maryam Talib, the daughter of Professor Thalib, said in a statement released by CAGE.

CAGE said the men had been held in solitary confinement and subjected to sleep deprivation during their detention.

Maryam Talib said the family still had "many unanswered questions", including&nbsp;why Canberra provided "little" support during the ordeal.

"We have still not received any formal allegations or justification for what has happened," she said.

Australia's foreign ministry said in a statement that it had "provided consular assistance to two Australian men who had been detained in Qatar" but declined to comment further.

The Qatari government has also been approached for comment.

In October, the US Department of the Treasury designated another son of Professor Thalib, Ahmed Luqman Talib, as a "facilitator" of Al-Qaeda, along with that son's gemstone company, Talib and Sons PTY LTD.

No charges have publicly been brought against Ahmed Luqman Talib.

His father was listed on the directory of Qatar University's College of Health Sciences as a professor of public health specialising in biostatistics.

CAGE said the released men planned to spend time recuperating in Turkey before returning to Australia. 
&nbsp;

An Australian father and son have been released after almost six months in detention on unknown charges in Qatar, multiple sources said Sunday. Professor Lukman Thalib, 58, and his son Ismail Talib, 24, were reportedly arrested in the Qatari capital Doha by local authorities in July.

An Australian father and son have been released after almost six months in detention on unknown charges in Qatar, multiple sources said Sunday. Professor Lukman Thalib, 58, and his son Ismail Talib, 24, were reportedly arrested in the Qatari capital Doha by local authorities in July. The pair have been released from Qatari custody, said a Doha-based source briefed on the case, who added that they flew to Turkey on January 5. UK-based human rights organisation CAGE said they travelled there to receive medical treatment. "As a family we were overwhelmed with joy when we heard my father and brother were being released. We really couldn't believe it," Maryam Talib, the daughter of Professor Thalib, said in a statement released by CAGE. CAGE said the men had been held in solitary confinement and subjected to sleep deprivation during their detention. Maryam Talib said the family still had "many unanswered questions", including why Canberra provided "little" support during the ordeal. "We have still not received any formal allegations or justification for what has happened," she said. Australia's foreign ministry said in a statement that it had "provided consular assistance to two Australian men who had been detained in Qatar" but declined to comment further. The Qatari government has also been approached for comment. In October, the US Department of the Treasury designated another son of Professor Thalib, Ahmed Luqman Talib, as a "facilitator" of Al-Qaeda, along with that son's gemstone company, Talib and Sons PTY LTD. No charges have publicly been brought against Ahmed Luqman Talib. His father was listed on the directory of Qatar University's College of Health Sciences as a professor of public health specialising in biostatistics. CAGE said the released men planned to spend time recuperating in Turkey before returning to Australia.

Australian father and son released from Qatar detention

Air travel between Qatar and Saudi Arabia will resume on Monday, according to the countries' airlines, a major landmark as Doha's former rivals normalise ties under a landmark agreement.

Saudi Arabia and its allies the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt in June 2017 slapped a blockade on Qatar that included closing airspace to the country over claims it backed Islamist groups and was too close to Iran.

Qatar always denied the charges.

The quartet agreed to lift the restrictions at a Gulf Cooperation Council summit last week in the Saudi desert city of Al-Ula, after energetic diplomacy by outgoing US President Donald Trump's administration.

The first commercial flight between Qatar and Saudi in three and a half years, a Qatar Airways service to Riyadh, will take off from Doha at 1045 GMT and touch down at 1210 GMT, according to the airline's timetable.

Saudi Airlines will fly from Riyadh to Doha, departing the kingdom at 1340 GMT according to its online schedule, with services from Jeddah expected to start at a later date.

The New York Times had reported that Qatar has been paying in excess of $100 million annually to use Iran's airspace to bypass Saudi Arabia.

Air travel between Qatar and Saudi Arabia will resume on Monday, according to the countries' airlines, a major landmark as Doha's former rivals normalise ties under a landmark agreement.

Air travel between Qatar and Saudi Arabia will resume on Monday, according to the countries' airlines, a major landmark as Doha's former rivals normalise ties under a landmark agreement. Saudi Arabia and its allies the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt in June 2017 slapped a blockade on Qatar that included closing airspace to the country over claims it backed Islamist groups and was too close to Iran. Qatar always denied the charges. The quartet agreed to lift the restrictions at a Gulf Cooperation Council summit last week in the Saudi desert city of Al-Ula, after energetic diplomacy by outgoing US President Donald Trump's administration. The first commercial flight between Qatar and Saudi in three and a half years, a Qatar Airways service to Riyadh, will take off from Doha at 1045 GMT and touch down at 1210 GMT, according to the airline's timetable. Saudi Airlines will fly from Riyadh to Doha, departing the kingdom at 1340 GMT according to its online schedule, with services from Jeddah expected to start at a later date. The New York Times had reported that Qatar has been paying in excess of $100 million annually to use Iran's airspace to bypass Saudi Arabia.

First Qatar to Saudi flight to take off after thaw

As they restore ties through a landmark deal, Qatar and Saudi Arabia opened their borders on Saturday. Saudi Arabia had shut its border with Qatar in June 2017 as part of sanctions. Saudi had said the sanctions were part of response to Qatar backing radical Islamist groups and closeness to Iran. Qatar has always denied the charges.

A Qatari source told AFP that traffic at the Abu Samrah crossing, 120 kilometres (75 miles) south of Doha, resumed around 0700 GMT.

Saudi Arabia, along with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt, all of which also imposed an embargo on travel and trade, agreed to lift the restrictions at a Gulf Cooperation Council summit in the kingdom on Tuesday.

The day before the summit, Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Ahmad Nasser Al-Sabah had announced on state television that a deal had been agreed to "open the airspace and land and sea borders between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar".

Only a trickle of cars arrived at the palm tree-lined, whitewashed border post to make the short crossing to the Saudi side after news broke that the frontier had reopened.

A smaller number made the journey from Saudi Arabia to Qatar, where strict measures to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus have been imposed.

"I'm very happy the border is open again," said Qatari Jaber al-Marri, as he approached a checkpoint in his Land Cruiser SUV, adding that he had relatives in the neighbouring kingdom.&nbsp;

"A lot of Qataris have relatives in Saudi Arabia," he said.

"The coming days will be better," added the man, holding a negative coronavirus test result in his hand.

(With AFP inputs)

As they restore ties through a landmark deal, Qatar and Saudi Arabia opened their borders on Saturday. Saudi Arabia had shut its border with Qatar in June 2017 as part of sanctions.

As they restore ties through a landmark deal, Qatar and Saudi Arabia opened their borders on Saturday. Saudi Arabia had shut its border with Qatar in June 2017 as part of sanctions. Saudi had said the sanctions were part of response to Qatar backing radical Islamist groups and closeness to Iran. Qatar has always denied the charges. A Qatari source told AFP that traffic at the Abu Samrah crossing, 120 kilometres (75 miles) south of Doha, resumed around 0700 GMT. Saudi Arabia, along with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt, all of which also imposed an embargo on travel and trade, agreed to lift the restrictions at a Gulf Cooperation Council summit in the kingdom on Tuesday. The day before the summit, Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Ahmad Nasser Al-Sabah had announced on state television that a deal had been agreed to "open the airspace and land and sea borders between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar". Only a trickle of cars arrived at the palm tree-lined, whitewashed border post to make the short crossing to the Saudi side after news broke that the frontier had reopened. A smaller number made the journey from Saudi Arabia to Qatar, where strict measures to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus have been imposed. "I'm very happy the border is open again," said Qatari Jaber al-Marri, as he approached a checkpoint in his Land Cruiser SUV, adding that he had relatives in the neighbouring kingdom. "A lot of Qataris have relatives in Saudi Arabia," he said. "The coming days will be better," added the man, holding a negative coronavirus test result in his hand. (With AFP inputs)

Saudi Arabia-Qatar border reopens after thaw in relations

Saudi Arabia and allies have decided to end the blockade of Qatar. In a summit, they signed an agreement on 'solidarity and stability'.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia and allies open their doors for Qatar

In 2017, 7 countries severed ties with Qatar in a matter of hours. Saudi Arabia led blockade was called the biggest diplomatic crisis in the region since the Gulf war of 1991

Gravitas: Explained: The Rift between Qatar and its Neighbours

Will the truce between Saudi Arabia & the Gulf unite West Asia? What does the United States stand to gain from the agreement? Will India benefit from the truce in the Gulf?

Gravitas: The Gulf Truce: How India could benefit

The Kuwait has now said that Saudi Arabia will reopen its air space and land border to Qatar after a nearly 3-year freeze on its relations.

Gulf nations open airspace and borders, focus on Gulf Cooperation Council meet

The Gulf crisis which has pitted regional players against Qatar could be moving closer to resolution as the key countries prepare to meet in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Riyadh led a coalition of countries in the Gulf and beyond in 2017 to cut ties with Doha over charges it was too close to Tehran and backed radical Islamist groups. Qatar denies the claims.

Washington has intensified pressure on the nations imposing what Qatar calls a "blockade" to resolve the crisis, insisting Gulf unity is necessary to isolate US rival Iran as the curtain falls on Donald Trump's presidency.

The row will top the agenda at Tuesday's meeting of leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council in the northwestern Saudi city of Al-Ula.

While Gulf sources say an agreement on further talks and limited confidence building measures is ready, not all of the boycotting countries have yet signed up.

The GCC is a bloc that includes boycotting countries Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, neutral Kuwait and Oman, and Qatar.

After severing ties in June 2017, the Saudi-led alliance subsequently forced out Qatari expatriate residents, closed their airspace to Qatari aircraft and sealed their borders and ports, separating some mixed-nationality families.

The boycott countries later issued a list of 13 demands for Doha, including the closure of pan-Arab satellite television channel Al Jazeera, undertakings on terror financing, and the shuttering of a Turkish military base in Qatar.

Doha has not publicly bowed to any of the demands.

- Resolution in sight? -

The White House has ramped up its rhetoric against Tehran, having walked out of an international deal to rein in Iran's nuclear programme in 2018.

US national security adviser Robert O'Brien said in November that allowing Qatari planes to fly over Saudi Arabia via an "air bridge" was a priority for the Trump administration.

In return, analysts have suggested Qatar could agree to tone down the coverage of Saudi Arabia by its media, including the Al Jazeera broadcaster.

"They will announce the interim deal with the emir most likely in attendance," said King's College London assistant professor Andreas Krieg.

"Bahrain has still not signed but all of the other blockading states have."

The country has repeatedly clashed with Qatar over the enforcement of maritime boundaries with several incidents in recent months which have seen the Qatari coastguard intercept Bahraini vessels.

It then flew four of its fighter jets over Qatar's territorial waters on December 9, Doha alleged in a letter to the United Nations Security Council.

Bahrain is acting as "a proxy," said Krieg. "While the UAE and Saudi feel pressure to fall in line of US pressure, they can use Bahrain as a disruptor to continuously show their discontent with Qatar."

Experts had warned that the UAE could be the spoiler for any regional reconciliation attempt, having heaped criticism on Qatar and its leadership since the spat erupted.

- Waiting for the emir -

Abu Dhabi's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted on December 22 that "political and social atmospheres in the Gulf are looking to end the Qatar crisis" but complained about Qatari media -- a longstanding grievance in the boycotting countries.

It also remains unclear if Qatar's ruler, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, will attend the summit in person, having skipped the gatherings since 2017.

Earlier this month, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said a resolution of the Gulf diplomatic crisis was in sight, with all governments involved "on board" and a final agreement expected soon.

Egypt and the UAE have since given their public support to the negotiations although diplomatic sources say the UAE has been reluctant to compromise.

The potential thaw comes as Gulf states prepare for the incoming US administration of President-elect Joe Biden.

Kuwait's Foreign Minister Sheikh Ahmed Nasser al-Mohammed Al-Sabah, whose country is leading mediation efforts, said all sides had expressed keenness for a "final agreement" during recent "fruitful discussions", which have included the United States.

Past mediation efforts to broker reconciliation between key US ally Qatar and its rivals have proved fruitless after apparent progress.

The Gulf crisis which has pitted regional players against Qatar could be moving closer to resolution as the key countries prepare to meet in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

The Gulf crisis which has pitted regional players against Qatar could be moving closer to resolution as the key countries prepare to meet in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. Riyadh led a coalition of countries in the Gulf and beyond in 2017 to cut ties with Doha over charges it was too close to Tehran and backed radical Islamist groups. Qatar denies the claims. Washington has intensified pressure on the nations imposing what Qatar calls a "blockade" to resolve the crisis, insisting Gulf unity is necessary to isolate US rival Iran as the curtain falls on Donald Trump's presidency. The row will top the agenda at Tuesday's meeting of leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council in the northwestern Saudi city of Al-Ula. While Gulf sources say an agreement on further talks and limited confidence building measures is ready, not all of the boycotting countries have yet signed up. The GCC is a bloc that includes boycotting countries Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, neutral Kuwait and Oman, and Qatar. After severing ties in June 2017, the Saudi-led alliance subsequently forced out Qatari expatriate residents, closed their airspace to Qatari aircraft and sealed their borders and ports, separating some mixed-nationality families. The boycott countries later issued a list of 13 demands for Doha, including the closure of pan-Arab satellite television channel Al Jazeera, undertakings on terror financing, and the shuttering of a Turkish military base in Qatar. Doha has not publicly bowed to any of the demands. - Resolution in sight? - The White House has ramped up its rhetoric against Tehran, having walked out of an international deal to rein in Iran's nuclear programme in 2018. US national security adviser Robert O'Brien said in November that allowing Qatari planes to fly over Saudi Arabia via an "air bridge" was a priority for the Trump administration. In return, analysts have suggested Qatar could agree to tone down the coverage of Saudi Arabia by its media, including the Al Jazeera broadcaster. "They will announce the interim deal with the emir most likely in attendance," said King's College London assistant professor Andreas Krieg. "Bahrain has still not signed but all of the other blockading states have." The country has repeatedly clashed with Qatar over the enforcement of maritime boundaries with several incidents in recent months which have seen the Qatari coastguard intercept Bahraini vessels. It then flew four of its fighter jets over Qatar's territorial waters on December 9, Doha alleged in a letter to the United Nations Security Council. Bahrain is acting as "a proxy," said Krieg. "While the UAE and Saudi feel pressure to fall in line of US pressure, they can use Bahrain as a disruptor to continuously show their discontent with Qatar." Experts had warned that the UAE could be the spoiler for any regional reconciliation attempt, having heaped criticism on Qatar and its leadership since the spat erupted. - Waiting for the emir - Abu Dhabi's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted on December 22 that "political and social atmospheres in the Gulf are looking to end the Qatar crisis" but complained about Qatari media -- a longstanding grievance in the boycotting countries. It also remains unclear if Qatar's ruler, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, will attend the summit in person, having skipped the gatherings since 2017. Earlier this month, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said a resolution of the Gulf diplomatic crisis was in sight, with all governments involved "on board" and a final agreement expected soon. Egypt and the UAE have since given their public support to the negotiations although diplomatic sources say the UAE has been reluctant to compromise. The potential thaw comes as Gulf states prepare for the incoming US administration of President-elect Joe Biden. Kuwait's Foreign Minister Sheikh Ahmed Nasser al-Mohammed Al-Sabah, whose country is leading mediation efforts, said all sides had expressed keenness for a "final agreement" during recent "fruitful discussions", which have included the United States. Past mediation efforts to broker reconciliation between key US ally Qatar and its rivals have proved fruitless after apparent progress.

Gulf crisis resolution in balance ahead of summit

Gulf Cooperation Council summit: Will Gulf crisis come to an end?

India is preparing for a leadership role in the Post-Pandemic World. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is in Qatar and Army Chief Gen. Naravane is in South Korea. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why these visits are very significant.

Gravitas: India preparing for the post-pandemic world

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Qatar's top leaders including Qatari Amir, prime minister, deputy prime minister, foreign minister and interior minister and discussed strengthening the economic and security bilateral cooperation, among other issues.&nbsp;

On his meeting with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Jaishankar also handed over a personal communication from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;

He also praised the amir's "warm sentiments for Indian community" and for his "vision" of taking the bilateral partnership to a "new level".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Called on H.H. <a href="https://twitter.com/TamimBinHamad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TamimBinHamad</a>, Amir of Qatar. Handed over a personal communication from PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level. <a href="https://t.co/3UJpkc9zP1">pic.twitter.com/3UJpkc9zP1</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343549447578464256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level," Jaishankar wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

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Warm meeting with H.H Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. His leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations. Appreciated his insights on global and regional developments. <a href="https://t.co/8g0udJWoGq">pic.twitter.com/8g0udJWoGq</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343557067798323201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also met former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and said his "leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations" in a tweet.

During his meet with Prime Minister and Interior Minister Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Jaishankar thanked him for looking after the Indian community during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

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Called on PM and Interior Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/KBKAlThani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KBKAlThani</a>. Thanked him for the care given to the Indian community in Qatar during COVID times. Discussed strengthening our bilateral economic and security cooperation. <a href="https://t.co/3OWVqT2yN2">pic.twitter.com/3OWVqT2yN2</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343548827828178945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also said that the duo discussed strengthening economic and security cooperation.&nbsp;

Jaishankar also met Qatar's Deputy Prime Minter Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who is also his counterpart, in which they discussed regional and multilateral developments.

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Thank <a href="https://twitter.com/MBA_AlThani_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MBA_AlThani_</a> Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Qatar for a very productive visit. Reviewed the entire gamut of our growing partnership. Discussed regional and multilateral developments. Looking forward to welcoming him to India for the Joint Commission meeting. <a href="https://t.co/f1UY1gCCyK">pic.twitter.com/f1UY1gCCyK</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343569398024560640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also called his visit "productive" in the meet with deputy PM.&nbsp;

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Qatar's top leaders including Qatari Amir, prime minister, deputy prime minister, foreign minister and interior minister and discussed strengthening the economic and security bilateral cooperation, among other issues.

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Qatar's top leaders including Qatari Amir, prime minister, deputy prime minister, foreign minister and interior minister and discussed strengthening the economic and security bilateral cooperation, among other issues. On his meeting with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Jaishankar also handed over a personal communication from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also praised the amir's "warm sentiments for Indian community" and for his "vision" of taking the bilateral partnership to a "new level". Called on H.H. @TamimBinHamad, Amir of Qatar. Handed over a personal communication from PM @narendramodi. Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level. pic.twitter.com/3UJpkc9zP1 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × "Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level," Jaishankar wrote in a tweet. Warm meeting with H.H Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. His leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations. Appreciated his insights on global and regional developments. pic.twitter.com/8g0udJWoGq — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × He also met former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and said his "leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations" in a tweet. During his meet with Prime Minister and Interior Minister Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Jaishankar thanked him for looking after the Indian community during the coronavirus pandemic. Called on PM and Interior Minister @KBKAlThani. Thanked him for the care given to the Indian community in Qatar during COVID times. Discussed strengthening our bilateral economic and security cooperation. pic.twitter.com/3OWVqT2yN2 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × He also said that the duo discussed strengthening economic and security cooperation. Jaishankar also met Qatar's Deputy Prime Minter Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who is also his counterpart, in which they discussed regional and multilateral developments. Thank @MBA_AlThani_ Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Qatar for a very productive visit. Reviewed the entire gamut of our growing partnership. Discussed regional and multilateral developments. Looking forward to welcoming him to India for the Joint Commission meeting. pic.twitter.com/f1UY1gCCyK — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × He also called his visit "productive" in the meet with deputy PM.

Jaishankar meets Qatari Amir, PM; discusses economic and security cooperation

Qatar is home to over seven lakh Indians. The bilateral trade was USD 10.95 billion in 2019-20, according to official data.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on 2-day visit to Qatar

The external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who is on a 2-day Qatar visit has told the Indian community that the economic impact of covid "can be put behind us" and the "economic confidence is visible".

In over one hour virtual meet, EAM said, &nbsp;"The general sense is Economy is coming back and coming back very very strongly. The feeling is Q1 &amp; Q2 of this financial year was obviously extremely tough, the feeling is now, all the feedback we get in terms of the critical sectors of the economy have been very positive."

Explaining that ,"there are areas, particularly the services sector, informal sector where recovery is not going to be so rapid. But again, there is economic confidence which is also visible, both the feeling that we can put the pandemic behind us as well as the economic consequences can be put behind us"

India's growth contracted to minus 23.9% in the first quarter of this financial year, and in the 2nd quarter, it came out at minus 7.5 % as the COVID crisis took a toll on the Economy. India along with all major economies saw contraction due to the pandemic.

EAM said India is "shifting gears" via Atmanirbhar Bharat which is "an expression, a desire to build stronger capabilities at home so that our participation in global economic activities is more effective"

Adding, "one of the issues with COVID has been that a lot of countries have been redoing supply chains, looking at on shoring many activities...Qatar is looking at its own near-term future, they have their own priorities, world cup football is significant among them and these are opportunities to draw the countries closer"

Qatar hosts more than 7 lakh Indians with bilateral trade at $10.95 billion in FY 2019-20. This is EAM's first visit to West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic. In September he made a stopover in Iran while going to Moscow, November saw a visit to UAE and Bahrain and currently, he is in Qatar. The increased high-level engagement between India and West Asian capitals comes even as both sides come closer in a number of areas from security to defence to people to people ties.

The external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who is on a 2-day Qatar visit has told the Indian community that the economic impact of covid "can be put behind us" and the "economic confidence is visible".

The external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who is on a 2-day Qatar visit has told the Indian community that the economic impact of covid "can be put behind us" and the "economic confidence is visible". In over one hour virtual meet, EAM said, "The general sense is Economy is coming back and coming back very very strongly. The feeling is Q1 & Q2 of this financial year was obviously extremely tough, the feeling is now, all the feedback we get in terms of the critical sectors of the economy have been very positive." Explaining that ,"there are areas, particularly the services sector, informal sector where recovery is not going to be so rapid. But again, there is economic confidence which is also visible, both the feeling that we can put the pandemic behind us as well as the economic consequences can be put behind us" India's growth contracted to minus 23.9% in the first quarter of this financial year, and in the 2nd quarter, it came out at minus 7.5 % as the COVID crisis took a toll on the Economy. India along with all major economies saw contraction due to the pandemic. EAM said India is "shifting gears" via Atmanirbhar Bharat which is "an expression, a desire to build stronger capabilities at home so that our participation in global economic activities is more effective" Adding, "one of the issues with COVID has been that a lot of countries have been redoing supply chains, looking at on shoring many activities...Qatar is looking at its own near-term future, they have their own priorities, world cup football is significant among them and these are opportunities to draw the countries closer" Qatar hosts more than 7 lakh Indians with bilateral trade at $10.95 billion in FY 2019-20. This is EAM's first visit to West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic. In September he made a stopover in Iran while going to Moscow, November saw a visit to UAE and Bahrain and currently, he is in Qatar. The increased high-level engagement between India and West Asian capitals comes even as both sides come closer in a number of areas from security to defence to people to people ties.

EAM tells Indian community in Qatar, economic confidence visible in India

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.

Seventh high-level visit from India to West Asia begins as Jaishankar reaches Qatar

Despite Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's calls for Afghan peace talks to be moved home, the next roundof negotiations are set to take place in Qatar, said AFP quoting a top official on Sunday. The talks are likely to begin next month. The peace talks began at a luxury hotel in Doha on September 12 but negotiations are currently on a break until January 5.

"The second round of talks will begin on January 5 in Doha," said Faraidoon Khwazoon, spokesman for Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation, which is leading the overall peace process in the country.

"The leadership committee of the council ... decided to hold the talks in Doha," he tweeted, adding that many of the countries that had earlier volunteered to host the talks withdrew their offers because of Covid-19.

The Afghan presidency tweeted in a separate statement that Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah who heads the council, held a meeting on Sunday.

The statement said that both of them discussed the next venue of talks.

Negotiators from both sides decided to take a break in early December after months of discussions that were bogged down by disputes on the basic framework of discussions and religious interpretations.

"It is not appropriate to insist on holding talks in luxurious hotels. It is necessary that the people see how the talks happen, which issues are focused on and why," Ghani said soon after the break in talks was announced.

The Taliban did not comment on Ghani's call, but they have in the past always refused to hold the negotiations in Afghanistan.

The insurgent group has a political office in Doha and its negotiating team resides there.

The talks follow a landmark troop withdrawal deal signed in February by the Taliban and Washington, which will see all foreign soldiers leave the violence-wracked country by May next year.

(With AFP inputs)

Despite Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's calls for Afghan peace talks to be moved home, the next roundof negotiations are set to take place in Qatar, said AFP quoting a top official on Sunday.

Despite Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's calls for Afghan peace talks to be moved home, the next roundof negotiations are set to take place in Qatar, said AFP quoting a top official on Sunday. The talks are likely to begin next month. The peace talks began at a luxury hotel in Doha on September 12 but negotiations are currently on a break until January 5. "The second round of talks will begin on January 5 in Doha," said Faraidoon Khwazoon, spokesman for Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation, which is leading the overall peace process in the country. "The leadership committee of the council ... decided to hold the talks in Doha," he tweeted, adding that many of the countries that had earlier volunteered to host the talks withdrew their offers because of Covid-19. The Afghan presidency tweeted in a separate statement that Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah who heads the council, held a meeting on Sunday. The statement said that both of them discussed the next venue of talks. Negotiators from both sides decided to take a break in early December after months of discussions that were bogged down by disputes on the basic framework of discussions and religious interpretations. "It is not appropriate to insist on holding talks in luxurious hotels. It is necessary that the people see how the talks happen, which issues are focused on and why," Ghani said soon after the break in talks was announced. The Taliban did not comment on Ghani's call, but they have in the past always refused to hold the negotiations in Afghanistan. The insurgent group has a political office in Doha and its negotiating team resides there. The talks follow a landmark troop withdrawal deal signed in February by the Taliban and Washington, which will see all foreign soldiers leave the violence-wracked country by May next year. (With AFP inputs)

Afghan peace talks to take place in Doha next month

India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar will be visting the state of Qatar today and during the visit he schedule to meet with the Qatari deputy Prime minister and the foreign minister, he is also going to meet other important Dignitaries of Qatar. This is Jaishankar's first visit to Qatar as External minister, during the visit he will be holding talks of Bilateral issues with his counterpart.

India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar will be visting the state of Qatar today

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