You are here

Off to a new, promising start

Sep 07,2019 - Last updated at Sep 07,2019

The exchange of ambassadors between Jordan and Qatar signals a new start in the bilateral relations between the two countries.

The warming up of relations between the two Arab countries is not only normal, but also necessary in view of the increased tensions in the Gulf region. Jordan has traditionally maintained the best of relations not only with Qatar, but also with all the Arab Gulf states.

When Jordan warms up relations with one Arab Gulf state, it is never at the expense of friendly and brotherly relations with the other Arab Gulf countries. Jordan views the current tense relations between some of the Arab Gulf states as only transient, soon to dissipate and be replaced by the normal brotherly relations that have always characterised their interactions.

There is considerable trade and common economic interests between Amman and Doha, with thousands of Jordanians employed in Qatar.

Qatar has also made considerable investments in the Jordanian economy, and its national airline, Qatar Airways, has become a major airline linking Jordan with many countries across the globe.

Recently, His Majesty King Abdullah exchanged a telephone conversation with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to set the stage for renewed bilateral relations. All signs suggest that the two countries are off to a new and promising start that can only lend added support to inter-Arab relations.

With the Arab Gulf region still embroiled in tensions over free shipping across the Strait of Hormuz, Qatar can play a significant role in containing tensions and replacing them with cordial relations. As Doha maintains good relations with Iran, it can certainly play a decisive role in improving relations between the main antagonists in the area. Doha can, indeed, be the bridge for defusing tensions in the region.

up
97 users have voted.


Newsletter

Get top stories and blog posts emailed to you each day.

PDF