Qatar has reaffirmed its support for initiating negotiations between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the need for dialogue and peaceful means to resolve outstanding issues. This comes after the first round of technical talks scheduled in Switzerland was cancelled following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two sides aimed at ending hostilities in West Asia.
High-Level Discussions in Switzerland
According to a statement from Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the issue was discussed during a meeting between Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis at the Burgenstock Resort in Switzerland on Friday. The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations, ways to enhance cooperation, and recent regional developments, particularly diplomatic efforts to bolster security and stability after the US-Iran MoU.
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed reiterated Doha's support for launching negotiations between Washington and Tehran. "The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed Doha's support for launching negotiations between the US and Iran to reach sustainable solutions to outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means," the Qatari Foreign Ministry stated.
Diplomatic Efforts for Regional Stability
The Qatari Prime Minister emphasized that such diplomatic initiatives would contribute to regional security and create new opportunities for cooperation, development, and prosperity, serving the common interests of people across the region and beyond. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis also highlighted the importance of diplomacy and mediation in addressing regional challenges.
In a post on X after the meeting, Cassis said he and the Qatari Foreign Minister discussed bilateral ties and exchanged views on regional developments following the US-Iran MoU. "As countries that place great importance on mediation, dialogue and good offices, Switzerland and Qatar share a strong commitment to supporting diplomatic solutions to international challenges," Cassis wrote. He thanked Qatar for its mediation efforts and reaffirmed Switzerland's readiness to support initiatives aimed at de-escalation, stability, and lasting peace.
Postponement of Talks Confirmed
On Thursday, the Swiss Foreign Ministry confirmed that the planned talks between the US and Iran had been postponed. In response to an email from ANI, the ministry stated: "The planned talks between the US, Iran, Qatar and Pakistan have been postponed. Switzerland remains ready to facilitate these talks. The relevant preparatory work at Burgenstock is continuing. No further information can be provided at present."
Details of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding
The 14-point MoU between the US and Iran includes an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations, including in Lebanon, and a commitment to conclude negotiations on a final deal within 60 days, extendable by mutual consent. Under the memorandum, the US will begin removing its naval blockade and related restrictions, while Iran will facilitate the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz free of charge for an initial 60-day period. During this time, technical talks on Iran's nuclear programme are also scheduled.
The document outlines plans for the phased lifting of sanctions, the release of frozen Iranian assets, US Treasury waivers for Iranian oil exports, and a US-backed reconstruction and economic development programme for Iran.
