Qatar's Mediation Prowess: Al Khulaifi Addresses Japanese Parliamentarians on Global Conflict Resolution

Doha, Qatar – October 23, 2026 – Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi, has underscored Qatar's dedication to global mediation and advocated for enhanced international collaboration in resolving conflicts. Speaking before the Parliamentary Association for Peace Mediation at the Japanese House of Representatives in Tokyo, Al Khulaifi reiterated Qatar's foreign policy cornerstone: dialogue and mediation.

Al Khulaifi emphasized that Qatar's foreign policy is guided by its constitutional obligations and a firm belief in diplomacy's critical role in safeguarding lives, mitigating suffering, and fostering security and stability. He outlined the key elements of successful mediation, including the cultivation of trust and credibility, the exercise of patience, adherence to commitments, and the preservation of negotiation confidentiality.

The minister elaborated on the mediator's function, describing it as facilitating mutually acceptable and sustainable solutions for conflicting parties. He highlighted Qatar's expanding role as an international mediator, citing ongoing efforts in critical regional and international disputes, such as those in Afghanistan, the Gaza Strip, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Qatar has been instrumental in mediating the ongoing conflict in Gaza, working closely with Egypt and the United States on ceasefire and captive release negotiations. The Gulf state also played a significant part in facilitating the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Furthermore, Al Khulaifi noted Qatar's involvement in reuniting displaced Ukrainian children with their families, initiatives aimed at alleviating humanitarian distress and paving the way for political resolutions. Since July 2023, Qatar's mediation program has successfully reunited dozens of Ukrainian children with their families.

Al Khulaifi stressed that the successful implementation of agreements and the fulfillment of commitments are as crucial as reaching them for achieving lasting peace. He also underscored the importance of protecting mediators and maintaining open channels of negotiation to preserve the possibility of peaceful settlements.

Concluding his address, Al Khulaifi lauded the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Qatar and Japan. He expressed optimism for strengthened cooperation in promoting dialogue, de-escalating tensions, and coordinating humanitarian and development aid in conflict-affected regions. He called for increased expertise sharing in mediation, aligning with both nations' objectives to bolster diplomatic efforts in resolving international disputes.