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FY 1999: Qatar |
III. Political Environment Nature of Political Relationship with the U.S.: The official visit to the U.S. in June 1997 of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Emir of Qatar, was the first ever visit of a Qatari head of state to the U.S. The visit reinforced the existing friendly and strong bilateral relationship which, since the exchange of diplomatic relations in 1974, has been based on the shared interests of promoting stability in the Gulf region, promoting peace in the Middle East region and strengthening cooperation in the field of education, trade and defense. Qatar is a strong supporter of the Middle East Peace Process, and in this spirit, Qatar successfully hosted the Middle East/ North Africa (MENA) Economic Conference in Doha, November 16-18, 1997. U.S. companies have gained a sizable market share for a variety of products and services in the area of oil and natural gas exploration, enhancement of recovery and equity participation. Total U.S. investment in Qatar is presently estimated at USD 6.5 billion. The new government of the Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, which assumed power in June 1995 in a bloodless coup, publicly opposes terrorism and extremism of any kind. The government adopts a policy which calls for resolving all political and border issues through peaceful negotiations and international arbitration. The Government of Qatar is a member of the six nation Gulf Cooperatino Council (GCC) and maintains good relations with all its beighbors. Qatar hosts regular deployments of U.S. and coalition forces holding military exercises in the region and also hosts military forces enforcing UN resolutions against Iraa. In a first attempt at democratization, the Government of Qatar is preparing to conduct nation-wide elections for a central municipal council for the entire country. A decree to this effect, calling for Qatari men and women to take part in the nominations, voting and election process, was issued in mid-July 1998. This, plus the adoption of liberal internal policies in the areas of education, communications and appointing women in government positions up to the level of Under Secretary, are viewed domestically as reforms which begin to satisfy the democratic ambitions of Qatari citizens. The government of Qatar has plans to establish democracy in this country and the will to implement those plans, regardless of how long it takes. Political System: One of the smallest Arab states by area and population, Qatar has one of the world's highest per capita incomes (USD 17,500, 1995 est.). It has no political parties and no political until now. The current provisional constitution vests extensive powers in the Emir. He enjoys both executive and legislative powers and, as such, promulgates laws through consultation with the Council of Ministers (Cabinet) and the Advisory Council (Parliament). Both the Parliament (30 members) and the Council of Ministers (15 members) are appointed by the Emir. Laws are subject to the Emir's approval before being passed. Elections to a municipal council with universal suffrage are scheduled for February 1999. For the first time in Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa has established a separate position of Prime Minister, currently occupied by the brother of the Emir, Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa. This post was traditionally invested in the Emir. The Emir appointed his son Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani as Heir Apparent and Deputy Emir. The Emir and his Government are intent on introducing democratic reforms and a more liberal society, while at the same time paying heed to the country's culture, tradition and values.[end of document]
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