Difference between revisions of "Qatar"

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|government-raw =
 
|government-raw =
 
|language =Arabic
 
|language =Arabic
|king         =Hamad bin Khalifa (emir)
+
|king         =
 
|queen         =
 
|queen         =
|monarch-raw =
+
|monarch-raw =[[Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani]] (emir)
 
|president =
 
|president =
 
|president-raw =
 
|president-raw =
 
|chancellor =
 
|chancellor =
 
|chancellor-raw =
 
|chancellor-raw =
|pm         =Hamad ibn Jaber Al Thani
+
|pm         =Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani
 
|pm-raw         =
 
|pm-raw         =
 
|area         =4,416 sq mi 11,437 KM2
 
|area         =4,416 sq mi 11,437 KM2
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For centuries, the main sources of wealth were pearling, fishing, and trade. At one time, Qataris owned nearly one-third of the Persian Gulf fishing fleet. With the Great Depression and the introduction of Japan's cultured-pearl industry, pearling in Qatar declined drastically.  
 
For centuries, the main sources of wealth were pearling, fishing, and trade. At one time, Qataris owned nearly one-third of the Persian Gulf fishing fleet. With the Great Depression and the introduction of Japan's cultured-pearl industry, pearling in Qatar declined drastically.  
  
The Qataris are mainly Sunni Muslims. Islam is the official religion, and Islamic jurisprudence is the basis of Qatar's legal system, although civil courts have jurisdiction over commercial law. Education is compulsory and free for all Arab residents 6-16 years old. Qatar has an increasingly high literacy rate. 85% people are educated.
+
The Qataris are mainly Sunni Muslims.Salafi Islam is the official religion, and Islamic jurisprudence is the basis of Qatar's legal system, although civil courts have jurisdiction over commercial law. Education is compulsory and free for all Arab residents 6–16 years old. Qatar has an increasingly high literacy rate. 85% people are educated.
  
 
==Government and Political Conditions==  
 
==Government and Political Conditions==  
 +
[[File:Doha Palace in Qatar.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Doha Palace.]]
 
The ruling Al Thani family continued to hold power following the declaration of independence in 1971. The head of state is the Amir, and the right to rule Qatar is passed on within the Al Thani family. Politically, Qatar is evolving from a traditional society to one based on more formal and democratic institutions to meet the requirements of social and economic progress. The country's constitution formalizes the hereditary rule of the Al Thani family, but it also establishes an elected legislative body and makes government ministers accountable to the legislature. In current practice, the Amir's role is influenced by continuing traditions of consultation, rule by consensus, and the citizen's right to appeal personally to the Amir. The Amir, while directly accountable to no one, cannot violate the Shari'a (Islamic law) and, in practice, must consider the opinions of leading families and the religious establishment.  
 
The ruling Al Thani family continued to hold power following the declaration of independence in 1971. The head of state is the Amir, and the right to rule Qatar is passed on within the Al Thani family. Politically, Qatar is evolving from a traditional society to one based on more formal and democratic institutions to meet the requirements of social and economic progress. The country's constitution formalizes the hereditary rule of the Al Thani family, but it also establishes an elected legislative body and makes government ministers accountable to the legislature. In current practice, the Amir's role is influenced by continuing traditions of consultation, rule by consensus, and the citizen's right to appeal personally to the Amir. The Amir, while directly accountable to no one, cannot violate the Shari'a (Islamic law) and, in practice, must consider the opinions of leading families and the religious establishment.  
  
 
The opinions of the people are institutionalized in the Advisory Council, an appointed body that assists the Amir in formulating policy. However, it is possible that the first elections for this body will occur in 2008. Elections in 1999, in which both men and women participated, resulted in the formation of a municipal council. One woman candidate was elected to the municipal council in 2003. Municipal elections were held for the third time in April 2007.  
 
The opinions of the people are institutionalized in the Advisory Council, an appointed body that assists the Amir in formulating policy. However, it is possible that the first elections for this body will occur in 2008. Elections in 1999, in which both men and women participated, resulted in the formation of a municipal council. One woman candidate was elected to the municipal council in 2003. Municipal elections were held for the third time in April 2007.  
  
There has been no serious challenge to Al Thani rule. As the most visible sign of the move toward openness, the Al Jazeera satellite television station based in Qatar is considered the most free and unfettered broadcast source in the Arab world. In practice, however, Al Jazeera rarely criticizes the ruling Al Thani family.  
+
There has been no serious challenge to Al Thani rule. As the most visible sign of the move toward openness, the Al Jazeera satellite television station based in Qatar is considered the most free and unfettered broadcast source in the Arab world. In practice, however, Al Jazeera rarely criticizes the ruling Al Thani family.
  
 
== Democracy ==
 
== Democracy ==
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===Principal Government Officials===
 
===Principal Government Officials===
*Amir, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, and Minister of Defense--HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
+
*Amir, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, and Minister of Defense—HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
*Heir Apparent, Deputy Chief of the Armed Forces--HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
+
*Heir Apparent, Deputy Chief of the Armed Forces—HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
*Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs--HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabir Al Thani
+
*Prime Minister—Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani
*Minister of Energy and Industry and Deputy Prime Minister--Abdullah al-Attiyah  
+
*Minister of Energy and Industry and Deputy Prime Minister—Abdullah al-Attiyah  
 
*Ambassador to the U.S.--vacant
 
*Ambassador to the U.S.--vacant
  
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For years, both Qatar and Bahrain claimed ownership of the Hawar Islands. The case was eventually referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. The ICJ issued a ruling in June 2001, which both sides accepted. In the agreement Bahrain kept the main Hawar Island but dropped claims to parts of mainland Qatar, while Qatar retained significant maritime areas and their resources.  
 
For years, both Qatar and Bahrain claimed ownership of the Hawar Islands. The case was eventually referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. The ICJ issued a ruling in June 2001, which both sides accepted. In the agreement Bahrain kept the main Hawar Island but dropped claims to parts of mainland Qatar, while Qatar retained significant maritime areas and their resources.  
  
Qatar is well known for being a mediator in the region. The government has brokered peace between Sunni radicals and the Yemeni government,<ref>http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/02/2008525134531779340.html</ref> and has also negotiated a peace deal in Lebanon averting a potential civil war.<ref>http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/02/2008525134531779340.html</ref> Much of their political capital has been earned through various humanitarian donations. The Qatari government provided $300 million dollars to help rebuild Lebanon after their war with Israel.<ref>http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,212521,00.html</ref> Additionally, after many Western nations cut off aid to Palestine in response to the election of Hamas, Qatar promised $50 million to help maintain the welfare of the state. While the United States has not supported every action taken by the Qatari government, the nation remains an indispensable asset on the road to peace in the Middle East. In response to questions regarding Qatar's positive relationships with both Western and Middle Eastern nations, Prime Minister Al Thani responded "Our ambition is to have prosperity for our people, we would like to be friendly with everyone."<ref>http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/04/america/letter5.php?page=2</ref>
+
Qatar is well known for being a mediator in the region. The government has brokered peace between Sunni radicals and the Yemeni government,<ref>http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/02/2008525134531779340.html</ref> and has also negotiated a peace deal in Lebanon averting a potential civil war.<ref>http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/02/2008525134531779340.html</ref> Much of their political capital has been earned through various humanitarian donations. The Qatari government provided $300 million to help rebuild Lebanon after their war with Israel.<ref>http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,212521,00.html</ref> Additionally, after many Western nations cut off aid to Palestine in response to the election of Hamas, Qatar promised $50 million to help maintain the welfare of the state. While the United States has not supported every action taken by the Qatari government, the nation remains an indispensable asset on the road to peace in the Middle East. In response to questions regarding Qatar's positive relationships with both Western and Middle Eastern nations, Prime Minister Al Thani responded "Our ambition is to have prosperity for our people, we would like to be friendly with everyone."<ref>http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/04/america/letter5.php?page=2</ref>
 +
 
 +
===Libyan, Syrian wars and the Islamic State===
 +
[[Hillary Clinton email scandal|Hillary Clinton's emails]] boast of [[Hillary Clinton]] engaging with [[UAE]], Qatar, and [[Jordan]] between March 18–30, 2011 to seek their participation in coalition operations. Over the course of several days, all three devote aircraft to the mission.
 +
 
 +
After [[Muammar Gaddafi]] shut down Libya’s Internet system in early March,<ref>http://goodtimesweb.org/surveillance/wsj-libya-spies-firms-aug-30-2011.html</ref> Qatar had given the rebel jihadis access to its satellites.<ref>https://consortiumnews.com/2011/10/28/sen-mccains-libyan-two-step/</ref>
 +
 
 +
A week after Gaddafi's murder, Qatar took credit for sending hundreds of troops into Libya to provide training, communications and strategy. Qatar "acted as the link between the rebels and [[Nato]] forces." ''Guardian'' adds,<ref>
 +
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/oct/26/qatar-troops-libya-rebels-support</ref>
 +
{{Quotebox|Some, however, express concern at the emirate's support for [[Islamist]] elements such as the 17 February Martyrs Brigade, one of the most influential rebel formations, led by Abdel-Hakim Belhaj.}}
 +
 
 +
On December 6, 2012 the ''New York Times'' confirmed
 +
{{Quotebox|"Qataris provided weapons, money and training to various rebel groups in Libya [destined for Syria]. One militia that received aid was controlled by [Abdelhakim Belhadj], then leader of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group, who was held by the C.I.A. in 2004..."<ref>http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/06/world/africa/weapons-sent-to-libyan-rebels-with-us-approval-fell-into-islamist-hands.html</ref>}}
 +
 
 +
On January 3, 2013 an arms flight was reported from Qatar to Istanbul destined for [[Islamic State]] rebels.
 +
 
 +
On May 16 the ''Financial Times'' reported Qatar had spent $3 billion over the past two years bankrolling the jihadi rebels in Syria.
  
 
==Defense==
 
==Defense==
Qatar's defense expenditures are estimated to be in the range of 10% of GDP. Qatar maintains a modest military force of about 12,000 men, including an army, navy, and air force. The country has a public security force of about 8,000 men, including a coast guard, national firefighting force, air wing, marine police, and an internal security force. Qatar also has signed defense pacts with the U.S., U.K., and France. Qatar plays an active role in the collective defense efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC--the regional organization of the Arab states in the Gulf; the other five members are Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, the U.A.E., and Oman). Qatari forces played an important role in the first Gulf War, and Qatar has supported U.S. military operations critical to the success of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Al Udeid, one of America's largest Air Force bases, remains a critical asset to operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.<ref>http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CE3DA133DF93BA15757C0A9659C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1</ref> Qatar hosts CENTCOM Forward Headquarters.
+
Qatar's defense expenditures are estimated to be in the range of 10% of GDP. Qatar maintains a modest military force of about 12,000 men, including an army, navy, and air force. The country has a public security force of about 8,000 men, including a coast guard, national firefighting force, air wing, marine police, and an internal security force. Qatar also has signed defense pacts with the U.S., U.K., and France. Qatar plays an active role in the collective defense efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC—the regional organization of the Arab states in the Gulf; the other five members are Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, the U.A.E., and Oman). Qatari forces played an important role in the first Gulf War, and Qatar has supported U.S. military operations critical to the success of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Al Udeid, one of America's largest Air Force bases, remains a critical asset to operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.<ref>http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CE3DA133DF93BA15757C0A9659C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1</ref> Qatar hosts CENTCOM Forward Headquarters.
  
 
==Economy==
 
==Economy==
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$145,300 (2010 est.); Country comparison to the world: 1; GDP (official exchange rate): $126.5 billion (2009 est.). Agriculture - products: fruits, vegetables; poultry, dairy products, beef; fish; Industries: liquefied natural gas, crude oil production and refining, ammonia, fertilizers, petrochemicals, steel reinforcing bars, cement, commercial ship repair. Oil - proved reserves:
 
$145,300 (2010 est.); Country comparison to the world: 1; GDP (official exchange rate): $126.5 billion (2009 est.). Agriculture - products: fruits, vegetables; poultry, dairy products, beef; fish; Industries: liquefied natural gas, crude oil production and refining, ammonia, fertilizers, petrochemicals, steel reinforcing bars, cement, commercial ship repair. Oil - proved reserves:
 
25.41 billion bbl (1 January 2010 est.) country comparison to the world: 12   
 
25.41 billion bbl (1 January 2010 est.) country comparison to the world: 12   
<ref> [http://www.theodora.com/wfbcurrent/qatar/qatar_economy.html Qatar Economy 2011, CIA World Factbook.] </ref>
+
<ref>[http://www.theodora.com/wfbcurrent/qatar/qatar_economy.html Qatar Economy 2011, CIA World Factbook.]</ref>
 
</blockquote>
 
</blockquote>
  
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In 1935, a 75-year oil concession was granted to the Qatar Petroleum Company, a subsidiary of the Iraq Petroleum Company, which was owned by Anglo-Dutch, French, and U.S. interests. High-quality oil was discovered in 1940 at Dukhan, on the western side of the Qatari peninsula. However, the start of WWII delayed exploitation of Qatar's oil resources, and oil exports did not begin until 1949.  
 
In 1935, a 75-year oil concession was granted to the Qatar Petroleum Company, a subsidiary of the Iraq Petroleum Company, which was owned by Anglo-Dutch, French, and U.S. interests. High-quality oil was discovered in 1940 at Dukhan, on the western side of the Qatari peninsula. However, the start of WWII delayed exploitation of Qatar's oil resources, and oil exports did not begin until 1949.  
 
[[File:Doha Mosque Qatar.jpg|thumb|left|280px|Doha Mosque.]]
 
[[File:Doha Mosque Qatar.jpg|thumb|left|280px|Doha Mosque.]]
During the 1950s and 1960s gradually increasing oil revenues brought prosperity, rapid immigration, substantial social progress, and the beginnings of Qatar's modern history. When the U.K. announced a policy in 1968 (reaffirmed in March 1971) of ending the treaty relationships with the Gulf sheikdoms, Qatar joined the other eight states then under British protection (the seven trucial sheikdoms--the present United Arab Emirates--and Bahrain) in a plan to form a union of Arab emirates. By mid-1971, as the termination date of the British treaty relationship (end of 1971) approached, the nine still had not agreed on terms of union. Accordingly, Qatar declared independence as a separate entity and became the fully independent State of Qatar on September 3, 1971.  
+
During the 1950s and 1960s gradually increasing oil revenues brought prosperity, rapid immigration, substantial social progress, and the beginnings of Qatar's modern history. When the U.K. announced a policy in 1968 (reaffirmed in March 1971) of ending the treaty relationships with the Gulf sheikdoms, Qatar joined the other eight states then under British protection (the seven trucial sheikdoms—the present United Arab Emirates—and Bahrain) in a plan to form a union of Arab emirates. By mid-1971, as the termination date of the British treaty relationship (end of 1971) approached, the nine still had not agreed on terms of union. Accordingly, Qatar declared independence as a separate entity and became the fully independent State of Qatar on September 3, 1971.  
  
 
In February 1972, the Heir Apparent, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad, deposed his cousin, Amir Ahmad, and assumed power. Key members of the Al Thani family supported this move, which took place without violence or signs of political unrest.  
 
In February 1972, the Heir Apparent, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad, deposed his cousin, Amir Ahmad, and assumed power. Key members of the Al Thani family supported this move, which took place without violence or signs of political unrest.  
Line 144: Line 161:
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
  
[[category:Middle Eastern Countries]]
+
{{Asian Countries}}
 +
 
 +
[[Category:Middle Eastern Countries]]
 
[[Category:Muslim-Majority Countries]]
 
[[Category:Muslim-Majority Countries]]
[[category:Asian Countries]]
 

Revision as of 22:56, September 8, 2017

دولة قطر
Dawlat Qatar
Qatar rel95.jpg
Flag of Qatar.png
Arms of Qatar.png
Flag Coat of Arms
Capital Doha
Government Constitutional monarchy
Language Arabic (official)
Monarch Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (emir)
Prime minister Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani
Area 4,416 sq mi 11,437 KM2
Population 841,000 (2007)
GDP 2005 $25.01 billion
GDP per capita $49,655
Currency Riyal

The State of Qatar is an emirate on a peninsula on the west coast of the Persian Gulf, with a population of over 900,000, although one quarter of that population are foreign workers and their family. The official language is Arabic and the capital is Doha. English is a commonly used second language.

People

Qatar people.jpg

Natives of the Arabian Peninsula, many Qataris are descended from a number of migratory tribes that came to Qatar in the 18th century from the neighboring areas of Nejd and Al-Hasa. Some came from neighboring Gulf emirates and others are descended from Persian merchants. Most of Qatar's 907,229 inhabitants live in Doha, the capital. Foreigners with temporary residence status make up about three-fourths of the population. Foreign workers comprise 52% of the total population and make up about 89% of the total labor force. Most are South and Southeast Asians, Egyptians, Palestinians, Jordanians, and Iranians. About 8,000 U.S. citizens reside in Qatar.

Ethnic groups: Arab 40%, Pakistani 18%, Indian 18%, Iranian 10%, other 14%.

The various ethnic groups of the country are Arab, Indian, Pakistani, Iranian and so on. Arabic is the official language of Qatar. However, English and Urdu are also spoken widely in various corners of the country. [1]

For centuries, the main sources of wealth were pearling, fishing, and trade. At one time, Qataris owned nearly one-third of the Persian Gulf fishing fleet. With the Great Depression and the introduction of Japan's cultured-pearl industry, pearling in Qatar declined drastically.

The Qataris are mainly Sunni Muslims.Salafi Islam is the official religion, and Islamic jurisprudence is the basis of Qatar's legal system, although civil courts have jurisdiction over commercial law. Education is compulsory and free for all Arab residents 6–16 years old. Qatar has an increasingly high literacy rate. 85% people are educated.

Government and Political Conditions

Doha Palace.

The ruling Al Thani family continued to hold power following the declaration of independence in 1971. The head of state is the Amir, and the right to rule Qatar is passed on within the Al Thani family. Politically, Qatar is evolving from a traditional society to one based on more formal and democratic institutions to meet the requirements of social and economic progress. The country's constitution formalizes the hereditary rule of the Al Thani family, but it also establishes an elected legislative body and makes government ministers accountable to the legislature. In current practice, the Amir's role is influenced by continuing traditions of consultation, rule by consensus, and the citizen's right to appeal personally to the Amir. The Amir, while directly accountable to no one, cannot violate the Shari'a (Islamic law) and, in practice, must consider the opinions of leading families and the religious establishment.

The opinions of the people are institutionalized in the Advisory Council, an appointed body that assists the Amir in formulating policy. However, it is possible that the first elections for this body will occur in 2008. Elections in 1999, in which both men and women participated, resulted in the formation of a municipal council. One woman candidate was elected to the municipal council in 2003. Municipal elections were held for the third time in April 2007.

There has been no serious challenge to Al Thani rule. As the most visible sign of the move toward openness, the Al Jazeera satellite television station based in Qatar is considered the most free and unfettered broadcast source in the Arab world. In practice, however, Al Jazeera rarely criticizes the ruling Al Thani family.

Democracy

Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, one of the richest man in the world, is the ruling Emir of the State of Qatar since 1995. He rose to that position on June 26, 1995, after deposing his father Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani who was on vacation in Switzerland at the time. [2]

At present there is not direct election in the electoral system. Since 1992, Sheikh Hamad has selected Qatar's cabinet as in an absolute monarchy.

An editorial in a Qatari newspaper published said:

U.S. President Barack Obama should refrain from sending U.S.-style democracy to the Middle East, "Mr. President, we have often written about U.S. foreign policy having double standards and being unmindful of the process of change in the Middle East. We do not want U.S. to export democracy to us because we do not want to repeat the Iraq experience," the editorial in the Doha daily The Peninsula said. [3]

Obama: "No big move toward democracy in Qatar" [4] but

Qatari women started to assume their leading role in the march of democracy; then in 2003 the first Qatari woman was appointed to the post of minister. Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Missned, the spouse of His Highness the Emir, played an active role in empowering and activating the role of women in all fields. [5]

Qatar has the potential to be an arena where peaceful democratic discussion can thrive. [6]

Principal Government Officials

  • Amir, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, and Minister of Defense—HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
  • Heir Apparent, Deputy Chief of the Armed Forces—HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
  • Prime Minister—Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani
  • Minister of Energy and Industry and Deputy Prime Minister—Abdullah al-Attiyah
  • Ambassador to the U.S.--vacant

Foreign Relations

File:Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani with Obamas.jpg
Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani and wife with Obamas.

Qatar achieved full independence in an atmosphere of cooperation with the U.K. and friendship with neighboring states. Most Arab states, the U.K., and the U.S. were among the first countries to recognize Qatar, and the state promptly gained admittance to the United Nations and the Arab League. Qatar established diplomatic relations with the U.S.S.R. and China in 1988. It was an early member of OPEC and a founding member of the GCC.

In September 1992, tensions arose with Saudi Arabia when Saudi forces allegedly attacked a Qatari border post, resulting in two deaths. Relations have since improved, and a joint commission has been set up to demarcate the border as agreed between the two governments. Most, but not all, of the border issues have been resolved.

For years, both Qatar and Bahrain claimed ownership of the Hawar Islands. The case was eventually referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. The ICJ issued a ruling in June 2001, which both sides accepted. In the agreement Bahrain kept the main Hawar Island but dropped claims to parts of mainland Qatar, while Qatar retained significant maritime areas and their resources.

Qatar is well known for being a mediator in the region. The government has brokered peace between Sunni radicals and the Yemeni government,[1] and has also negotiated a peace deal in Lebanon averting a potential civil war.[2] Much of their political capital has been earned through various humanitarian donations. The Qatari government provided $300 million to help rebuild Lebanon after their war with Israel.[3] Additionally, after many Western nations cut off aid to Palestine in response to the election of Hamas, Qatar promised $50 million to help maintain the welfare of the state. While the United States has not supported every action taken by the Qatari government, the nation remains an indispensable asset on the road to peace in the Middle East. In response to questions regarding Qatar's positive relationships with both Western and Middle Eastern nations, Prime Minister Al Thani responded "Our ambition is to have prosperity for our people, we would like to be friendly with everyone."[4]

Libyan, Syrian wars and the Islamic State

Hillary Clinton's emails boast of Hillary Clinton engaging with UAE, Qatar, and Jordan between March 18–30, 2011 to seek their participation in coalition operations. Over the course of several days, all three devote aircraft to the mission.

After Muammar Gaddafi shut down Libya’s Internet system in early March,[5] Qatar had given the rebel jihadis access to its satellites.[6]

A week after Gaddafi's murder, Qatar took credit for sending hundreds of troops into Libya to provide training, communications and strategy. Qatar "acted as the link between the rebels and Nato forces." Guardian adds,[7]

Some, however, express concern at the emirate's support for Islamist elements such as the 17 February Martyrs Brigade, one of the most influential rebel formations, led by Abdel-Hakim Belhaj.

On December 6, 2012 the New York Times confirmed

"Qataris provided weapons, money and training to various rebel groups in Libya [destined for Syria]. One militia that received aid was controlled by [Abdelhakim Belhadj], then leader of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group, who was held by the C.I.A. in 2004..."[8]

On January 3, 2013 an arms flight was reported from Qatar to Istanbul destined for Islamic State rebels.

On May 16 the Financial Times reported Qatar had spent $3 billion over the past two years bankrolling the jihadi rebels in Syria.

Defense

Qatar's defense expenditures are estimated to be in the range of 10% of GDP. Qatar maintains a modest military force of about 12,000 men, including an army, navy, and air force. The country has a public security force of about 8,000 men, including a coast guard, national firefighting force, air wing, marine police, and an internal security force. Qatar also has signed defense pacts with the U.S., U.K., and France. Qatar plays an active role in the collective defense efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC—the regional organization of the Arab states in the Gulf; the other five members are Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, the U.A.E., and Oman). Qatari forces played an important role in the first Gulf War, and Qatar has supported U.S. military operations critical to the success of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Al Udeid, one of America's largest Air Force bases, remains a critical asset to operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.[9] Qatar hosts CENTCOM Forward Headquarters.

Economy

Oil formed the cornerstone of Qatar's economy well into the 1990s and still accounts for about 62% of total government revenue. In 1973, oil production and revenues increased sizably, moving Qatar out of the rank of the world's poorest countries and providing it with one of the highest per capita incomes. In 2006, Qatar's per capita income of nearly $62,000 was the fifth-highest in the world.

Industrial Gas Oil Qatar.jpg

Qatar's economy suffered a downturn from in the mid-1990s. Lower Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil production quotas, a fall in oil prices, and the generally unpromising outlook on international markets reduced oil earnings. In turn, the Qatari Government cut spending plans to match lower income. The resulting recessionary local business climate caused many firms to lay off expatriate staff. With the economy recovering in the late 1990s, expatriate populations have grown again.

Oil production is currently around 835,000 barrels a day (bpd), and is expected to reach 1.1 million bpd by 2009. At the current production pace, oil reserves are expected to last more than 40 years. Moreover, Qatar's proven reserves of gas are the third-largest in the world, exceeding 900 trillion cubic feet (14% of the world's total proven gas reserves). Qatar shares with Iran the largest single non-associated gas field in the world, the North Field. Qatar is now the world's largest producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG), with a capacity of more than 31 million metric tons per annum (mmta), and it expects to reach 77.5 mmta of LNG exports by 2010. By 2010, Qatar will account for one-third of the world's LNG supply.

The 1991 completion of the $1.5-billion Phase I of the North Field gas development project strongly boosted the economy. In 1996, Qatar began exporting liquefied natural gas to Japan. Further phases of North Field gas development costing billions of dollars are in various stages of planning and development, and Qatar has concluded agreements with the U.A.E. to export gas via pipelines and to Spain, Turkey, Italy, the U.S., France, South Korea, India, China, Taiwan, and the U.K. via ship. However, the government has halted any further expansion of gas production until 2010, as it assesses its plans for future exploitation of the field.

Qatar's natural gas liquefaction facilities and related industries are located in Ras Laffan Industrial City, site of the world's largest LNG exports of more than 31 million metric tons per year. Qatar's heavy industrial base, located in Messaieed, includes a refinery with a 140,000 bpd capacity, a fertilizer plant for urea and ammonia, a steel plant, and a petrochemical plant, and several new petrochemical plants will be built in the coming years. All these industries use gas for fuel. Most are joint ventures between U.S., European, and Japanese firms and the state-owned Qatar Petroleum (QP). The U.S. is the major equipment supplier for Qatar's oil and gas industry, and U.S. companies are playing a major role in the development of the oil and gas sector and petrochemicals.

The country's economic growth has been stunning. Qatar's nominal GDP, currently around $52.7 billion, has grown an average of 15% over the past five years. GDP is expected to grow approximately 8.3% in 2007. Qatar's per capita GDP is more than $60,000, and projected to soon be the highest in the world. The Qatari Government's strategy is to utilize its wealth to generate more wealth by diversifying the economic base of the country beyond hydrocarbons.

Qatar pursues a vigorous program of "Qatarization," under which all joint venture industries and government departments strive to move Qatari nationals into positions of greater authority. Growing numbers of foreign-educated Qataris, including many educated in the U.S., are returning home to assume key positions formerly occupied by expatriates. In order to control the influx of expatriate workers, Qatar has tightened the administration of its foreign manpower programs over the past several years. Security is the principal basis for Qatar's strict entry and immigration rules and regulations.

For 2011, despite the global financial crisis, Qatar has maintained its economic growth of the last several years. Qatari authorities throughout the crisis sought to protect the local banking sector with direct investments into domestic banks. GDP rebounded in 2010 largely due to the increase in oil prices. Economic policy is focused on developing Qatar's nonassociated natural gas reserves and increasing private and foreign investment in non-energy sectors, but oil and gas still account for more than 50% of GDP, roughly 85% of export earnings, and 70% of government revenues. Oil and gas have made Qatar the second highest per-capita income country - following Liechtenstein - and the world's second fastest growing - following Macau. Proved oil reserves of 15 billion barrels should enable continued output at current levels for 37 years. Qatar's proved reserves of natural gas exceed 25 trillion cubic meters, about 14% of the world total and third largest in the world. Qatar's successful 2022 world cup bid will likely accelerate large-scale infrastructure projects such as Qatar's metro system and the Qatar-Bahrain causeway. GDP - per capita: $145,300 (2010 est.); Country comparison to the world: 1; GDP (official exchange rate): $126.5 billion (2009 est.). Agriculture - products: fruits, vegetables; poultry, dairy products, beef; fish; Industries: liquefied natural gas, crude oil production and refining, ammonia, fertilizers, petrochemicals, steel reinforcing bars, cement, commercial ship repair. Oil - proved reserves: 25.41 billion bbl (1 January 2010 est.) country comparison to the world: 12 [10]

History

Map of Persia - Arabia, with the adjacent countries, 1855, (detail).

Qatar has been inhabited for millennia. The Al Khalifa family of Bahrain dominated the area until 1868 when, at the request of Qatari nobles, the British negotiated the termination of the Bahraini claim, except for the payment of tribute. The tribute ended when the Ottoman Empire occupied Qatar in 1872.

When the Ottomans left at the beginning of World War I, the British recognized Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani as ruler. The Al Thani family had lived in Qatar for 200 years. The 1916 treaty between the United Kingdom and Sheikh Abdullah was similar to those entered into by the British with other Gulf principalities. Under it, the ruler agreed not to dispose of any of his territory except to the U.K. and not to enter into relationships with any other foreign government without British consent. In return, the British promised to protect Qatar from all aggression by sea and to lend their good offices in case of a land attack. A 1934 treaty granted more extensive British protection.

In 1935, a 75-year oil concession was granted to the Qatar Petroleum Company, a subsidiary of the Iraq Petroleum Company, which was owned by Anglo-Dutch, French, and U.S. interests. High-quality oil was discovered in 1940 at Dukhan, on the western side of the Qatari peninsula. However, the start of WWII delayed exploitation of Qatar's oil resources, and oil exports did not begin until 1949.

Doha Mosque.

During the 1950s and 1960s gradually increasing oil revenues brought prosperity, rapid immigration, substantial social progress, and the beginnings of Qatar's modern history. When the U.K. announced a policy in 1968 (reaffirmed in March 1971) of ending the treaty relationships with the Gulf sheikdoms, Qatar joined the other eight states then under British protection (the seven trucial sheikdoms—the present United Arab Emirates—and Bahrain) in a plan to form a union of Arab emirates. By mid-1971, as the termination date of the British treaty relationship (end of 1971) approached, the nine still had not agreed on terms of union. Accordingly, Qatar declared independence as a separate entity and became the fully independent State of Qatar on September 3, 1971.

In February 1972, the Heir Apparent, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad, deposed his cousin, Amir Ahmad, and assumed power. Key members of the Al Thani family supported this move, which took place without violence or signs of political unrest.

On June 27, 1995, the Deputy Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa, deposed his father Amir Khalifa in a bloodless coup. An unsuccessful counter-coup was staged in 1996. The Amir and his father are now reconciled, though some supporters of the counter-coup remain in prison. The Amir announced his intention for Qatar to move toward democracy and has permitted a freer and more open press and municipal elections as a precursor to expected parliamentary elections. Qatari citizens approved a new constitution via public referendum in April 2003, which came into force in June 2005.

In 1996 Al Jazeera launches the first independent Arab satellite news channel, breaking the monopoly of state controlled media in the region and in 2006 Qatar becomes the world’s largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and acts as the first Arab host of the Asian Games. [7]

External links


Copyright Details
License: This work is in the Public Domain in the United States because it is a work of the United States Federal Government under the terms of Title 17, Chapter 1, Section 105 of the U.S. Code
Source: File available from the United States Federal Government.

Source = [8]

References

  1. http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/02/2008525134531779340.html
  2. http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/02/2008525134531779340.html
  3. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,212521,00.html
  4. http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/04/america/letter5.php?page=2
  5. http://goodtimesweb.org/surveillance/wsj-libya-spies-firms-aug-30-2011.html
  6. https://consortiumnews.com/2011/10/28/sen-mccains-libyan-two-step/
  7. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/oct/26/qatar-troops-libya-rebels-support
  8. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/06/world/africa/weapons-sent-to-libyan-rebels-with-us-approval-fell-into-islamist-hands.html
  9. http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CE3DA133DF93BA15757C0A9659C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1
  10. Qatar Economy 2011, CIA World Factbook.