Qatar To Deepen Ties With The U.S.; Wields Trade Deals And Big Investment As ‘Soft Power’

Following the 2022 World Cup charges of labor use, graft and links to militants, Qatar aims to gain back their Middle East power broker standing as they seek trade deals and major investments with the U.S., reported Reuters on Nov. 4.

The Middle Eastern nation also seeks to protect their financial leverage, especially after observing a diminishing interest of the U.S. on the Gulf Arab states, and to safeguard its political ties with the western nation despite U.S.-Iran cooperation.

Despite poor labor right and alleged corruption, the U.S. still see great potential in Qatar as a major regional mediator due to its relations with Islamists across the Middle East. This is deemed by the U.S. as an advantage, especially once plans to end civil war in Syria commences.

During the October U.S.-Qatar Economic and Invest and Dialogue in Washington, Deputy Secretary of State Tony Blinken noted that U.S.'s relations with Qatar was "absolutely essential and fundamental" to American strategy in the Middle East and added that they are prepared to give assistance and protection to the Gulf states should they be faced with dangers.

"The U.S. and Qatar are partners economically just as we are in the security sphere," said Blinken.

According to The Peninsula on Oct. 27, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Qatar Foreign Minister H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah signed a memorandum of understanding in October that ensures economic and investment dialogue between both nations.

The event was also attended by Minister of Finance, H E Ali Sherif Al Emadi, Qatar Investment Authority CEO Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani and Qatar's Ambassador to Washington Mohamed Jaham Al Kuwari.

Through the memorandum of agreement, both nations will be able to hold annual meetings and coordination among primary decision makers in order to boost bilateral financial, economic and investment ties.

"Countries that work together in one area will find it easier to do so in another," noted Blinken in his statement before the signing ceremony. "And of course, our economic strength can go a long way in enhancing our strength and ability to deal with different issues around the world."

"Today we recognize in a more formal way a reality that's been clear for some time," Blinken said in the live video press conference. "The United States and Qatar are partners economically just as we are in the security sphere."