Saudi Arabia and Qatar are becoming key diplomatic players in global conflicts, hosting crucial negotiations on the Ukraine and Gaza issues. Despite their differing foreign policies and a history of rivalry, both countries are using their influence to broker peace and enhance their roles on the international stage.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar are emerging as influential players in global diplomacy by arranging significant negotiations regarding the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Saudi Arabia is hosting discussions in Jeddah that involve key stakeholders, including the US, Ukraine, and Russia. Concurrently, Qatar is facilitating dialogues in Doha between Israel and Hamas, showcasing their commitment to mediation despite historical tensions.
Both countries are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council; however, their foreign policies frequently differ. Qatar has shown support for entities like the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas, in contrast to Saudi Arabia’s opposition to such affiliations. Their rivalry culminated in a diplomatic crisis in 2017, resolved by the 2021 Al-Ula Agreement, yet they are currently leveraging their regional influence to foster peace.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has played a crucial role in negotiations, exemplified by the 1989 Taif Agreement that concluded Lebanon’s civil war. On the other hand, Qatar has established itself as a negotiator through the US-Taliban dialogues and maintains strong relationships with Hamas and Iran. Analysts regard Saudi Arabia’s ties with President Donald Trump as a key advantage in mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict, while Qatar’s connections with Hamas provide leverage in Israeli discussions.
Despite competitive dynamics in their diplomatic aspirations, both nations ultimately aim to enhance their global influence and stature. Their ongoing negotiations are significant on an international scale, suggesting a shifting landscape in global diplomacy.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar are redefining their roles in global diplomacy, focusing on pivotal negotiations regarding Ukraine and Gaza. While they possess distinct foreign policies, both nations are uniting their diplomatic efforts to expand their global influence. Their rivalry has morphed into collaboration as both seek to leverage their mediation experience and regional relationships in addressing major conflicts.
Original Source: themedialine.org
