In a high-stakes diplomatic effort to foster stability in the Middle East, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff met with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani this past Saturday in Miami.
The discussions centered on a proposed ceasefire deal between Washington and Iran. As the United States awaits a response from Tehran on the peace proposal, Qatar continues to serve as a vital intermediary, bridging the gap between the two powers. Tommy Pigott, a spokesperson for the US Department of State, noted that Secretary Rubio expressed significant appreciation for Qatar's ongoing partnership across a variety of critical issues.
Beyond the immediate focus on Iran, the meeting also touched upon US support for Qatar's defense. Both parties emphasized the necessity of close coordination to deter potential threats and ensure long-term security and stability throughout the Middle East region.
Parallel to the Miami talks, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani engaged in a phone conversation with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. During the call, the Qatari Prime Minister urged both the US and Iran to approach the current delicate stage of negotiations with "responsibility" and "wisdom."
The two diplomats underscored the importance of relying fully on diplomacy to settle disputes, stressing that the sustainability of regional security depends on prioritizing political solutions. They argued that such a path is essential to preserving the resources and well-being of the peoples across the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
