Latest news with #US-Qatar
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
'DRC, Rwanda Peace Deal Entrenches Economic Colonialism'
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (C) hosts a peace agreement signing with Democratic Republic of the Congo Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner (R) and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe (L) at the State Department in Washington, DC, on June 27, 2025. Image: AFP Kim Heller The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a nation scarred by decades of bloodstained battles, is in desperate need of peace. A permanent ceasefire that heralds in lasting peace is the only passport to sustainable recovery, repair and development in the besieged nation. Conflict-related deaths and displacement are epidemic. The recent escalation of conflict saw the M23 rebel group gain control over major cities and airports. Previous peace talks and ceasefires have failed to quell the violence. The newly brokered US-Qatar peace accord for the DRC is being hailed as a turning point. Signed by the foreign ministers of the DRC and Rwanda in Washington on June 27, 2025, the deal has sparked a measure of optimism. However, while there have been celebrations at the White House, attacks have continued on the ground in the DRC. On the very same day that the deal was struck, the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO), a militia group, attacked a displacement camp in the Ituri Province, killing three women and eight children. The current President of the DRC, Felix Tshisekedi, has described the deal as a promise of peace for the people of eastern DRC. However, for former President Joseph Kabila, the peace deal is 'nothing more than a trade agreement'. The DRC appears to be trading its mineral riches and rights in exchange for US military support in a deal that resembles a new age neocolonial plunder scheme. What is being touted as a rescue plan for the Congo could well turn out to be little more than a schematic for daylight robbery, not only of the nation's treasure chest of mineral resources but of its priceless sovereignty. Those hoping that the Washington agreement is a magical potion for lasting peace in the DRC may find that it is little more than a prescription of US opportunism. The expedient and transactional character of Donald Trump is infamous. The United States' participation in promoting a peace deal between the DRC and Rwanda is undoubtedly part of his frenzied crusade for a Nobel Peace Prize. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Trump has already stated that he deserves recognition for his hand in forging a truce between the DRC and Rwanda. The US's ambition to secure its access to Congo's precious cobalt and coltan is no state secret. The geopolitical spinoffs of the deal will boost the US's position on the Continent and help to edge out China's growing influence and market potential. It is a jackpot for Trump. The agreement calls for disengagement, disarmament and conditional amalgamation of armed groups. Details on implementation and enforcement are sketchy. Proposals on joint security efforts and regional economic integration are not novel ideas. These have been recommended in previous peace bids and not accomplished. Kabila believes the Congolese people deserve more than propaganda and a diplomatic "show". Congratulatory handshakes in the US cannot block out red flags about the lack of active participation of the AU, the exclusion of M23 and other militia groups and the lack of dialogue with ordinary citizens, who are most impacted by the ongoing warfare. This belittles African agency. Long-standing, deep, and festering tensions, ever-inflamed regional security issues, and broken economies cannot be resolved on foreign soil. A peace deal manufactured in Washington sets a dangerous precedent for Africa. It emboldens a new era of foreign imperialism and downgrades sovereignty and self-determination. Often, international interference is cleverly packaged as international mediation. The winner is rarely Africa. This new peace deal will enable the US to secure valuable minerals and mining rights, thereby advancing its geopolitical standing on the Continent. For Qatar, this mediation is part of its long-game strategy of soft power diplomacy. Trump has microwaved a winning solution for his administration. He has recast the US as a force in the East African region. While the DRC and Rwanda economies may benefit from inflows of investment and new mineral trade value chains and routes, the primary beneficiary will be the US and US mining companies. Territorially, the peace deal could see Rwanda holding onto its control and influence over some of the eastern DRC, through its purported association with M23.
Qatar Tribune
11-06-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
US-Qatar ties have gone beyond traditional alliances: Timmy Davis
Hanane Djoua Doha US Ambassador to Qatar HE Timmy Davis has emphasised that US-Qatar ties have now gone far beyond traditional alliances. 'This relationship is mature. We're not just partners — we're close friends. And that gives us the power to do something rare: to act together for good,' said the outgoing US ambassador during his farewell briefing on Wednesday. With heartfelt words, moments of reflection, and no shortage of gratitude, Davis delivered his final remarks in Qatar — a country that, over the last three years, he said, has come to feel like home. 'I am the luckiest ambassador in the world,' the US envoy told journalists. 'We've seen the highs and lows of this region together — from the triumph of the World Cup to the tragedy in Gaza. But through it all, Qatar has stood tall, and our partnership has grown stronger.' Much of his speech centered on the ongoing war in Gaza, and Qatar's critical role in mediation efforts. 'We are working to reach a ceasefire, to ease the suffering, and to bring peace to both sides. And we are doing it — as always — with Qatar,' he added. The US ambassador shared one of his most memorable moments: standing on the tarmac as American detainees returned from Iran — a release made possible by Qatar's mediation. 'One of the men came off the plane, walked up to me, and asked, 'Are you the US ambassador?' I said yes. He replied, 'Can I give you a hug?'' It was, he said, a defining moment. 'That hug reminded me that this relationship is not just about diplomacy or trade. It's about real people. It's about changing lives together.' Davis urged both nations to move beyond reacting to crises and begin working to prevent them. 'There's space in this world for two good friends like the US and Qatar to look ahead — to spot problems before they spiral, and to use our shared expertise and values to stop them in their tracks.' He spoke with admiration about Qatar's humanitarian work through the Qatar Fund for Development, calling it 'utterly impressive,' and said the US should deepen coordination in that space. While his message was filled with optimism, Davis didn't hide how hard it was to say goodbye. 'Qatar has begun to feel like home,' he said He offered sincere advice to his yet-to-be-named successor: 'Go to weddings. Attend funerals. Be present in moments that matter. Be proud of representing the US, but always remember that the job is to make this relationship meaningful for both sides.' Davis also took time to thank the journalists present — and the local press corps at large — for their integrity and professionalism. 'You've done your jobs with enthusiasm for truth and perspective,' he said. 'I've watched you ask tough questions. You've made space for transparency and accountability. Any one of you could walk into Northwestern University in Education City — one of the best journalism schools in the US — and teach a class on what journalism should be.' From the rise of AI and data centers to entrepreneurship and the mobility of the labour market, Davis said the press can be the guiding force that shows people 'the ember that could become a flame.' 'There are young people out there with dreams — dreams they may not yet believe are possible. The media can help them believe.' Davis called the recent visit of US President Donald Trump to Qatar 'an utter success,' not only because of the $243 billion in agreements signed, but because of the long-term vision: a possible $1.2 trillion in bilateral trade over the next decade. 'This isn't just about numbers,' he said. 'It's about shared prosperity, shared security, and shared purpose.' As his time in Doha came to a close, Davis was reflective but hopeful. 'It's so hard to pick just one moment that stands out,' he said. 'Because every step of the way, we were building something meaningful.' His parting message wasn't just to diplomats or government officials — but to all who call Qatar home. 'We've built something special. Now it's someone else's turn to carry the baton. But I hope this isn't goodbye — just the beginning of a new chapter.'
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Boeing secures landmark deal with Qatar Airways as Trump deepens Gulf ties
Boeing has secured a historic deal with Qatar Airways, as part of US President Donald Trump's regional trade drive. Shares in the largest US aerospace manufacturer rose 2% to a 52-week high on Wednesday following the announcement. During Trump's visit to Qatar, the White House revealed that the US president had reached agreements totalling $243.5 billion (€209 bn) with the Gulf state. 'The landmark deals celebrated today will drive innovation and prosperity for generations, bolster American manufacturing and technological leadership, and put America on the path to a new Golden Age,' stated the White House. The deals include a $96bn (€85.8 bn) Boeing aircraft order from Qatar Airways, a record order for the US's largest exporter. Following a $600bn (€535bn) investment plan made with Saudi Arabia earlier this week, the US-Qatar agreements further strengthen Washington's ties with the wealthy Gulf nations. President Trump is set to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) later today, with speculation that further Boeing deals may be signed with Emirates, Qatar Airways' larger regional competitor. Boeing announced that Qatar Airways would purchase 130 787 Dreamliners and 30 777X aircraft, calling the order 'a record as the largest widebody order for Boeing, the largest order for 787 Dreamliners, and Qatar Airways' largest-ever order.' The company claims the deal will support nearly 400,000 jobs in the US. President Trump attended the signing ceremony. "After two consecutive years of record-breaking commercial performance, and with this historic Boeing aircraft order, we're not simply chasing scale — we're building strength that will allow us to continue delivering unmatched products and customer experiences,' said Qatar Airways CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. 'We thank our Boeing partners for answering the call and look forward to a future of continued smart growth together. Our team is excited to build 787s and 777s for Qatar Airways into the next decade, as they connect more people and businesses around the world with unmatched efficiency and comfort." The deal is a major win for Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, who accompanied Trump on the Middle East trip. On Tuesday, Boeing also secured a $4.8bn (€4.3 bn) agreement for 737-8 MAX jets with AviLease, a Saudi Arabia-based aircraft lessor. Boeing's 737 MAX passenger airliner had been grounded between 2019 and 2020, and again in 2024, due to ongoing safety and production concerns. The company has remained unprofitable since 2018, with its shares falling to a multi-year low in early April following Trump's announcement of reciprocal tariffs. China halted orders from Boeing in late April in response to Trump's tariffs. During an interview with CNBC last month, Ortberg indicated that aircraft initially built for Chinese buyers may be redirected to other customers later this year. On Tuesday, Trump also finalised an $80bn (€71 bn) artificial intelligence investment plan with Saudi Arabia, which helped fuel rallies in Nvidia and other major tech stocks. Previously, US semiconductor shares had come under pressure amid the escalating US-China trade tensions. The Trump administration rescinded the AI diffusion rule introduced by former President Joe Biden, which would have taken effect today. However, the Department of Justice said it would rewrite the export curbs on AI chip exports to China. On Wednesday, China's Ministry of Commerce announced a 90-day suspension on export restrictions targeting 28 US companies, including rare earths and other critical materials, as part of a bilateral agreement reached after trade talks over the weekend.
Gulf Insider
16-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Donald Trump in Qatar: $1.2tn Economic Exchange Announced
US President Donald Trump signed an agreement with Qatar to generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2tn as part of his tour of the Gulf. President Trump also announced economic deals totalling more than $243.5bn between the United States and Qatar, including an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways. The landmark deals will drive innovation and prosperity, said the Whitehouse in a statement. Among the deals secured in Qatar were: Boeing and GE Aerospace secured a landmark order from Qatar Airways, a $96bn agreement to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. This is Boeing's largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order McDermott has a strong partnership with Qatar Energy in advancing critical energy infrastructure, with seven active projects worth $8.5bn Parsons has successfully won 30 projects worth up to $97bn Quantinuum finalised a Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, a prominent Qatari company. Qatar will invest up to $1bn in state-of-the-art quantum technologies and workforce development provided by the Joint Venture The agreements mark President Trump's intent to accelerate Qatar's defence investment in the US-Qatar security partnership—enhancing regional deterrence and benefitting the US industrial base. The defence deals lock in Qatar's procurement of state-of-the-art military equipment from two leading US defence companies. Raytheon, an RTX business, secured a $1bn agreement for Qatar's acquisition of counter-drone capabilities, signed by the US and Qatari governments. This deal establishes Qatar as the first international customer for Raytheon's Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS). General Atomics secured a nearly $2bn agreement for Qatar's acquisition of the MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft system, signed by the US and Qatari governments. The United States and Qatar also signed a statement of intent to further strengthen our security partnership, outlining more than $38bn in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at Al Udeid Air Base and future defence capabilities related to air defence and maritime security. The agreements and instruments aim to drive the growth of the US-Qatar bilateral commercial relationship, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and open new trade and investment opportunities for both countries over the coming decade and beyond.
The Herald Scotland
16-05-2025
- Politics
- The Herald Scotland
Trump conveniently forgets issues with Qatar. Price? One jet
History tells a different story. Eight years ago, during the first year of Trump's first term, he took his first overseas trip to Saudi Arabia, where he openly embraced that country in a dispute with Qatar. Trump, after that 2017 trip, cast Qatar as a hotbed for terrorist organizations. "The nation of Qatar, unfortunately, has historically been a funder of terrorism at a very high level, and in the wake of that conference, nations came together and spoke to me about confronting Qatar over its behavior," Trump said at the White House in June 2019 after he returned from the Middle East. Those comments came two days after Trump posted on the social media site then known as Twitter: "During my recent trip to the Middle East I stated that there can no longer be funding of Radical Ideology. Leaders pointed to Qatar - look!" Trump and Qatar now have strong motivations to rewrite that history. Qatar wants influence with Trump, who wants a fancy jumbo jet that measures up when parked next to the luxury rides enjoyed by Gulf State rulers. Trump doesn't want us to forget all the things he said about Qatar To hear Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Qatar's prime minister, tell it now, there's never been any friction between his country and Trump. He told CNN this during a May 14 interview: "I don't see any controversy." That's a convenient blind spot for Al-Thani, who looked and sounded uncomfortable with the topic. He has similar perception problems with history. "Why would we buy an influence in the United States?" he asked CNN. "If you look just in the last 10 years in the US-Qatar relationship. Qatar has been always there for the US, when it's needed, whether it's on the war against terror, whether it's in the evacuation of Afghanistan, whether it's on releasing hostages from different, different countries around the world." Opinion: All Trump does is win, win, win (in his head, head, head ...) Just before leaving Qatar on May 15, Trump took his own shot at recasting the history of the relationship, suggesting America has been in long-term lockstep with that country, just like with Saudi Arabia. Trump's comments, circulated by the White House media operation, did not mention his very public siding with Saudi Arabia against Qatar eight years ago. Al-Thani told CNN his country would withdraw the gift if it is deemed illegal by Trump's government. Trump's press secretary on May 12 said those details "are still being worked out." Trump has shown considerably less discretion here, reposting social media comments from supporters who compare the $400 million jet with Britain's 1880 gift of the Resolute Desk used by American presidents and France's 1886 gift of The Statue of Liberty. Republicans don't worry about the Constitution or ethics One difference here: Trump didn't try to take the Resolute Desk or the Statue of Liberty with him when he left office in January 2021. But that's exactly what he wants to do with the Qatari jet. He claims it will go to his presidential library and that he won't fly on it for personal trips. Trump is good at making promises and bad at keeping them. As for legality, who is going to stop Trump here? The U.S. Constitution's emoluments clause says a president needs "the consent of Congress" to accept a gift from a foreign country. But Trump's second administration has shown little interest in following the Constitution or orders from federal judges who insist on it. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has already signed off on the gift. Democrats on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on May 14 asked for her memo about the gift and the names of any Department of Justice ethics officials who reviewed it. There's good cause for that: Bondi, before Trump picked her for AG, was on a team of lobbyists who represented Qatar in Washington on a $115,000 monthly contract. And the Department of Justice, under her leadership, has been firing career officials who focus on ethics. Democrats on the U.S. House Judiciary Committee on May 14 introduced a resolution, demanding that Trump follow the Constitution's emoluments clause. Like their colleagues in the Senate, those Democrats are in the minority and lack meaningful power in Congress to stymie Trump for now. Some Congressional Republicans have shown discomfort with Trump's pending gift, but not enough to actually act like a co-equal branch of our government with the power to hold an executive in check. Opinion: I asked Team Trump why they now hate a 'woke' bill he himself signed into law Trump knows how to dodge accountability. He's done it before. Trump sees all this, and I'm betting he'll use his most successful tactic: running out the clock. Remember, Trump faced all sorts of federal and state criminal troubles while out of office, including a conviction on 34 felonies in New York. But getting reelected as president pressed pause on all that. Opinion newsletter: Sign up for our newsletter on people, power and policies in the time of Trump from columnist Chris Brennan. Get it delivered to your inbox. Trump has also run out the clock on emoluments. Maryland and the District of Columbia sued him during his first term for profiting from foreign countries spending big at a Washington hotel his private company then controlled. As Michael Waldman, president of the Brennan Center for Justice, noted on May 14, his nonpartisan law and policy organization agreed with Maryland and the District of Columbia on the suit about the Trump International Hotel. "That case got tied up in court, and in 2021, the Supreme Court ultimately dismissed it since Trump was no longer president," Waldman wrote. Sounds like Trump's endgame, right? Take the jet, thumb his nose (as always) at the Constitution, count on the feckless and fearful Republicans in Congress to do nothing, and laugh off the Democrats who try to stop him. Sure, there will likely be lawsuits. Democrats, if they can win back one or both chambers in Congress next year, might even try to impeach him for a third time on this issue. Trump's constant thrum of emails seeking donations from supporters routinely cites the possibility of a third impeachment. That will all take time. By then, Trump may be laughing at 30,000 feet in his "palace in the sky" about how America repeatedly let him game our system. Unless, of course, this time we don't. Follow USA TODAY columnist Chris Brennan on X, formerly known as Twitter: @ByCrisBrennan. Sign up for his weekly newsletter, Translating Politics, here.
