Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani declared on Tuesday that the nation will emerge from recent crises more resilient and better adapted to global shifts, emphasizing a strategic pivot toward diversifying the economy beyond hydrocarbons. In a address at the Shura Council’s annual session in Doha, he outlined plans to bolster non-oil sectors while expanding traditional liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply chains.
Sheikh Tamim underscored that Qatar was targeted by Iran in a violation of its sovereignty and international law, reiterating the country’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution. “Our dedication to dialogue does not diminish our right to defend our sovereignty,” he stated, adding that Qatar seeks to prevent wider conflicts.
Against a backdrop of regional instability, the Emir stressed the importance of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) unity, asserting that regional security is non-negotiable. He called for enhanced cooperation to protect navigation in the Gulf and Hormuz Strait, as well as critical energy and water infrastructure.
Reflecting on the crisis, Sheikh Tamim highlighted Qatar’s proactive measures, noting that resilience stems from prior planning. The nation simultaneously safeguarded its sovereignty, maintained energy security, and kept diplomatic channels open. He detailed four pillars of the strategy: firm defense without entanglement in war, preservation of essential services and supply chains, contributions to ceasefire efforts, and renewed pushes for negotiations.
Acknowledging Qatar’s role as a top LNG supplier, the Emir noted that disruptions directly impact global markets. Despite attacks on facilities like Ras Laffan, the economy absorbed shocks, with non-hydrocarbon sectors growing to approximately 80% of real GDP. Financially, revenues fell 42% in the first half, but spending was trimmed by 14% without compromising key services, thanks to conservative fiscal policies.
Looking ahead, Sheikh Tamim emphasized that recovery should accelerate diversification, not revert to pre-crisis norms. Plans include expanding the North Field Gas project, advancing international investments like Golden Pass, and developing petrochemical, solar, and water security initiatives. He also prioritized food security, technology, education, and digital transformation.
On the Palestinian issue, the Emir condemned actions in Gaza as genocide, urging accountability for violations in the West Bank and Al-Aqsa Mosque. He reaffirmed Qatar’s mediation efforts in Sudan, Libya, Yemen, and Somalia, positioning the country as a key diplomatic actor.