Ankara, July 07 (QNA) - The State of Qatar participated in the ministerial meeting of the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI) and NATO member states, held on the sidelines of the NATO Summit in Ankara, Turkiye.

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi led the State of Qatar's delegation at the meeting.

In his remarks, His Excellency indicated that the meeting comes at a pivotal stage, in which security and political challenges have become more interconnected and intertwined, and international interests have become more overlapping, which makes it necessary to unify efforts and enhance coordination to confront these challenges, which affect the security of Middle Eastern countries and threaten the foundations of regional and international stability.

His Excellency pointed out that the Middle East region has recently witnessed a dangerous escalation, highlighting the grave risks involved in military escalation. He stressed the urgent need to prioritize diplomacy, dialogue, and collective efforts aimed at maintaining regional peace and stability.

HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar's commitment to the path of dialogue and diplomacy, and the pursuit of de-escalation, and building on the gains achieved under the memorandum of understanding signed between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran, in a way that contributes to strengthening security and stability regionally and internationally. He noted that, following the ceasefire and in close coordination with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and other regional and international partners, Qatar intensified its mediation efforts to help maintain the ceasefire, facilitate the continuation of dialogue, and encourage confidence-building measures between the parties.

His Excellency affirmed the State of Qatar's belief that sustainable security cannot be achieved by military means alone, but rather through diplomacy, direct dialogue, and the creation of political pathways, stressing its commitment to playing the role of a trusted mediator and facilitator of dialogue.

His Excellency added that based on its conviction that diplomacy is the most effective path to resolving disputes, the State of Qatar continues to engage constructively with all parties, maintaining open channels of communication even during times of heightened tension.

This approach has enabled Qatar to contribute to mediation efforts both regionally and internationally, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in conflict prevention, de-escalation, and peacebuilding. In this context, Doha is hosting meetings between representatives of both sides to continue their dialogue and move forward towards resolving their differences through negotiation and peaceful means, thereby enhancing the prospects for achieving sustainable peace and economic growth at both the regional and international levels.

His Excellency noted that the State of Qatar attaches great importance to strengthening its cooperation with NATO within the framework of the ICI, which was launched in 2004.

He indicated that Qatar has consistently supported efforts to enhance practical cooperation with NATO and remains committed to promoting dialogue, building capacities, and contributing to joint initiatives that address mutual security concerns.

HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that an agreement had been reached regarding the Individually Tailored Partnership Program (ITPP) between the State of Qatar and NATO.

His Excellency also announced that the final stage of establishing a regional center for peace support operations in the State of Qatar, under the auspices of the NATO, is nearing completion. (QNA)