Recently, we were pleased with the visit of Prince Mohammed bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Crown Prince, Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Saudi Arabia. This honoured guest came to visit the Emir and all the people of Qatar; the Emir’s guest is our guest.
This was the first visit abroad by Prince Nayef after he assumed the post of Deputy Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. This gesture is a confirmation of the deep-rooted relations between the two countries that span several centuries, whether it is the fraternal relationship between the two royal families or the brotherly relations of the two peoples, who interact with each other a lot.
The relationship between the two countries is not just based on diplomatic ties, as it is among other countries, but is wider in scope, and is exemplary and unique.
At a time of immense challenges and multiple threats facing the region, the visit of Prince Nayef carries great importance, since Saudi Arabia plays a major role in balancing the region by leading the way, whether it is at the GCC, Arab or regional level; it also plays a prominent role with regard to many global issues.
Today, Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, may God protect him, who is known for his wisdom, vision and foresight, can seriously address regional issues with a new vision.
This is due to the constructive steps taken by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, who has brought young blood to leadership positions. This means that the kingdom is entering a new stage of development at home, and its role is more important abroad.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques has formed new councils to boost development. Perhaps the most prominent of these are the Council of Security and Political Affairs, which is chaired by Prince Mohammed bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, and the Council of Economic Affairs, which is chaired by Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
These two figures are known for their effectiveness and seriousness in producing results. Prince Nayef had major accomplishments at the Ministry of Interior, and dealt with many issues at home and abroad.
He now chairs the Council of Security and Political Affairs, in addition to holding other posts, which shows that he is most qualified for the trust of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques due to his successes.
The same goes for the young leader Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the defence minister, who holds the presidency of the Council of Economic Affairs.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman has outstanding academic and practical experience, which are needed to make a quantum leap in the defence and economic spheres as Saudi Arabia pursues its development goals.
The Qatari people rejoice in any success, progress or prominent position achieved by Saudi Arabia; their success is our success, and we cherish it. The same goes for the other GCC countries, which are a part of our regional home.
We are confident that the wisdom of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and his vision and leadership will address all risks facing the region, since the kingdom always leads the way.
Whether it is at the Gulf, regional or Arab level, Saudi Arabia has worked to consolidate the GCC, promote security and peace in the region, encourage respect and non-interference among neighbours, provide support for the stability of the region, and address issues related to Arab and Islamic nations.
The present sensitive period requires more communication and constructive work among GCC countries. Our Gulf is a unified entity, which today is in dire need of more integration, social cohesion and better prioritisation. It also needs to avoid issues that may prick sensitivities. I am sure the GCC leaders know the threats facing the Council.
In Qatar, we greatly appreciate the role being played by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Saudi Arabia in serving the interests of Arab and Islamic nations.
I am confident that the relationship between the two countries and their peoples will witness further development and integration.
