Doha: HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani engaged in a series of significant phone calls with international leaders on Tuesday, highlighting Qatar's active role in regional diplomacy and its commitment to addressing pressing issues. The discussions underscored Qatar's diplomatic engagements with global counterparts amid regional tensions and significant developments.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Amir received a phone call from HE President of the Republic of Turkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The leaders expressed mutual condolences for the martyrs of the Qatar Armed Forces helicopter crash that occurred in Qatar's territorial waters. This tragic event has prompted both leaders to wish for mercy for the deceased and extend solace to the bereaved families.
Furthermore, HH the Amir also spoke with HE Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic, Kyriakos Mitsotakis. During this call, the Greek Prime Minister reiterated his country's solidarity with Qatar, especially in light of Iranian aggression affecting Qatar and other regional countries. This conversation highlighted the ongoing geopolitical challenges in the region and the importance of international solidarity.
In another diplomatic engagement, HH the Amir received a call from HE President of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr. Natasa Pirc Musar, who extended her congratulations on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr. She expressed hopes for further progress and prosperity for Qatar, further emphasizing the bonds of friendship between the two nations.
On the same day, HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al-Thani met with HE French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, Catherine Vautrin. Their discussions focused on regional security updates and explored avenues for enhanced cooperation and joint coordination, reflecting the strategic defense partnerships Qatar maintains with international allies.
Additionally, Dr. Majid bin Mohammed Al Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, clarified that Qatar is not engaging in direct mediation between the United States and Iran. He emphasized Qatar's support for diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and ending ongoing conflicts.
In a show of solidarity, the State of Qatar extended condolences to the United Arab Emirates over the death of a civilian contractor serving with the UAE armed forces. Meanwhile, HE Ambassador of Qatar to Turkiye, Faisal bin Abdullah Al Hanzab, conveyed condolences to Turkiye for the loss of martyrs from the Qatari-Turkish Joint Forces and Turkish civilian collaborators following the helicopter crash in Qatari waters.
Qatar also condemned the escalating violations by Israeli forces against Palestinians, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian concerns and the need for international intervention to address these issues effectively. The statement emphasized Qatar's strong opposition to the violations and its commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights and humanitarian aid access.
HE Ambassador Al Hanzab participated in a meeting with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye, Hakan Fidan, alongside ambassadors from GCC countries and Jordan, reflecting Qatar's continued engagement in regional diplomatic efforts.