Al-Sharq: Humanitarian Action is One of the Cornerstones of Qatar's Foreign Policy

Doha August 20 (QNA) - Al Sharq newspaper stressed today that humanitarian action is one of the cornerstones of Qatar's foreign policy, which is based on the values of divine laws and principles of human rights, adding that these values are of great interest to the Qatari leadership. Al-Sharq said, in an editorial titled "Doha, the Pioneer of Humanitarian Work," that the State of Qatar views peace in a comprehensive manner, adding that peace, in the eyes of Qatari diplomacy, is not just the disappearance and elimination of violence; it is, rather, based on compromise, justice, promoting sustainable human development, defending human rights and promoting social cohesion by rejecting injustice and exclusion. Therefore, it was not surprising for Doha to prioritize the adoption of humanitarian initiatives aimed at serving world peace and security and helping afflicted people to contribute to a more just and equitable world. The newspaper pointed out that the Qatari individual is a noble, philanthropist by nature; therefore, it is not surprising that some Qatari families have a charitable project that goes beyond the initiatives done by some charities even in difficult circumstances. The continuation of Qatari charity work despite the unjust blockade is proof of that. Al-Sharq added that Qatar's initiatives were not limited to humanitarian relief work, but went beyond that to mediations in the regional and international political issues, which are closely related to humanitarian issues. Qatar mediated many political issues from 2008 to 2016, and spent great political and diplomatic effort to reconcile different views, find durable solutions to disputes and differences and host rounds of negotiations between conflicting parties. These efforts have succeeded and contributed to the maintenance of international peace and security. This is clear in the Darfur Peace Agreement, Eritrea's release of Djiboutian captives and the release of some hostages in Syria, which were all achieved through Qatari mediation. Qatar also contributed in ending the presidential vacuum in Lebanon and the reconciliation of the Palestinian brothers. The newspaper concluded its editorial by saying that when Doha attempt to do good, it do not target a particular faction or sector. It extends its hands to all with benevolence, without waiting for any benefits. This is the secret of the international community's respect for Qatar's policy. It is not an exaggeration to say that Doha became a pioneer in spreading the culture of humanitarian action. (QNA)