Qatar stresses necessity of keeping maritime security at the core of international efforts

Qatar stressed on Friday the necessity of keeping the issue of preserving maritime security and freedom of navigation at the core of joint international efforts, and utilizing technological innovation to enhance international peace and security. This affirmation came during the participation of Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Aliya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, in the open high-level debate session of the UN Security Council.

The Qatar News Agency (QNA) quoted bin Saif as saying that developments in the Middle East region this year have shown the severe consequences of threats facing maritime security and freedom of navigation, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. The Qatari ambassador stressed Qatar’s firm rejection of using the strait as a pressure card, and called for its reopening without conditions, noting that freedom of navigation and rights of transit passage are entrenched principles that allow no compromise under international law.

For her part, bin Saif pointed out that Qatar attaches great importance to maritime security as a fundamental pillar of international peace and security, and its awareness of the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. She explained that the misuse of these technologies poses a serious challenge to commercial shipping and maritime infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safe movement of commercial ships in the strait and surrounding areas.

She added that Qatar continues its active participation in the work of the International Maritime Organization, including meetings of the Maritime Safety Committee, and noted Qatar’s support for international efforts to assist ships and sailors affected at sea. Qatar had previously stressed on September 5 in two letters to the UN Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council the necessity of Iran respecting international freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, reiterating its rejection of using international navigation as a means of pressure.

Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)