Post by : Badri Ariffin

Qatar has reaffirmed the necessity of freedom of navigation in international waters as a cornerstone of international law. It underscored that meaningful dialogue, adherence to legal frameworks, and good-neighborly relations are crucial to address global crises effectively and mitigate adverse effects.

This assertion was made by Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, during a high-level United Nations Security Council debate focusing on the safety and safeguarding of maritime routes.

She pointed out that the dialogue is especially pertinent at this juncture, given the rise in threats to international waterways that extend beyond conventional challenges, endangering global peace, security, and economic stability—particularly in key channels like the Strait of Hormuz.

Qatar reiterated that navigational freedom is a fundamental tenet under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Additionally, it referenced UN Security Council Resolution 552 (1984), which calls upon all countries to uphold free movement in international waters and safeguard the territorial rights of coastal nations.

Discussing recent events in the Strait of Hormuz, Qatar highlighted the need for adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 2817. Introduced by Bahrain on behalf of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan, the resolution denounced actions targeting Qatar and other regional countries as breaches of international law and threats to global stability.

The resolution also cautioned against any efforts to obstruct navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, labeling such conduct as a severe risk to international security and commerce.

Moreover, Qatar stressed the importance of ensuring navigational safety and protecting global supply chains in alignment with international law. It lauded Pakistan's mediation efforts, which were instrumental in achieving a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, stressing the necessity of respecting this ceasefire to foster a dialogued environment and secure navigation in critical waterways.

In closing, Qatar reaffirmed its strong backing for diplomatic initiatives and peaceful solutions. It stressed that dialogue, adherence to international law, and cooperation among nations are vital in preserving global stability and maritime security.

#world news #Global News #Qatar News #Qatar