Dr. Khalid Al-Shafi
Dr. Khalid Al-Shafi | Editor-in-Chief
This is the second Eid after Eid Al Fitr that Qatar is witnessing under the siege imposed by brotherly countries with which Qatar has strong social and mixed family ties.
Eid Al Adha is a happy day for all Muslim nations and we are receiving the Eid with full happiness under the leadership of our beloved Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
People of Qatar have confirmed to the world their loyalty to the country standing united and firm behind their leadership.
However, Qataris feel pain because they have been banned from performing Haj this year due to unprecedented restrictions imposed by the Saudi authorities which have politicised rituals of Haj. This is the first time in history that Qataris have been prevented from performing the fifth pillar of Islam and visit the holy sites in Saudi Arabia.
We are not affected and will not be as the hypocrites want. Qatar today is not like Qatar before. Patriotism motivated its people to work harder for the future of a country which has given them everything in its possession with the instructions of the Emir who placed the country among the advanced states in the world.
In his dignity speech, the Emir said “Every cloud has a silver lining” and this has made us self reliant ensuring the continued flow of basic necessities depending on Allah first and on the shoulders of the sons of this nation. It is worth mentioning that the region does not bear any more political differences or disputes or irresponsible statements which can only benefit our common enemies. The eminent threats around these countries are waiting for suitable opportunities to target all countries in the region and not only certain states. The Gulf region is one of the most important areas in the world due to its wealth and economic potential.
This does not mean that Qatar is being affected by the siege, because I strongly believe that a country under the leadership of H H Sheikh Tamim will never be affected by such siege even if it continues for years. But I am saying this to show my keenness to the region’s countries and their future. Qatar does not look to its future alone because it is one of these countries and part of the joint system.
Qatar has drawn up its plans long ago, and will not be affected by any political or economic skirmishes from here or there because assistance it has provided with and global stances it has taken prove its status. Regardless of the privileges the country is providing to nationals and residents, Qatar is implementing plans developed in accordance with the highest international standards and its National Vision 2030.
We reiterate welcoming the Kuwaiti mediation which we highly appreciate and respect. We welcome constructive dialogue which does not insult national decisions of any party, or interfere in internal affairs of any, but before dialogue the siege must be lifted. All issues can be discussed on the table after lifting the unjust siege. Finally, we have to enjoy the Eid today with people of Qatar and under the leadership of Tamim Al Majd.
