Often a country has to make tough choices at some point in the never-ending journey of nationhood. In some cases, the choices may be forced by compelling political events; in others, they may be voluntary. Either way it calls for a strong resolve and an unending commitment to certain ideals that could stand the test of time and inspire the coming generations.
Qatar’s National Day celebrations encompassed all of those ideals – clarity of thought, compassion, dignity, pride, patriotism and solidarity. Above all, it projected a vision that would make every citizen and resident’s heart fill with pride. To the expatriate, it didn’t matter which country he or she calls home; yesterday, it was Qatar and only Qatar that mattered.
The unjust blockade of Qatar began in June with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt hoping they could bully Qatar with their strong arm tactics and make it fall in line with their thinking in matters of foreign policy, freedom of speech and expression and regional sociopolitical dynamics.
However, within a couple of weeks, they found the tables turned on them by Qatar, whose proactive diplomacy took the enormous challenge head on. Qatar’s ministers and top diplomats worked tirelessly to counter the Saudi-led quartet. They made speeches in foreign capitals, they took part in seminars, they engaged intellectuals, political scientists and religious scholars, ripping to shreds the malicious premise of the blockade and the even more diabolical intentions behind it.
His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani led from the front in all these efforts. Unflinching in the face of tremendous pressure, he calmly assured the nation that that there was nothing to worry about. Qatar would emerge stronger than ever in due course, he promised.
That, indeed, proved the case. More than six months into the siege, Qatar now stands on the cusp of a future filled with tremendous promise. The authorities have ensured that new projects and processes are put in place that would make Qatar self-reliant. Billions of dollars have been spent to ensure that the security and welfare of the people are not compromised.
In fact, things are looking so promising for Qatar that the blockading countries are desperate for a face-saving exit from the mess they created for themselves. In fact, they have no option but to marvel at Qatar’s resolve and fortitude.
Remarkably, during the entire duration of the manufactured crisis, not once did Qatar use undiplomatic or crude language to berate its adversaries. Qatar’s leadership, in fact, even asked citizens and residents to refrain from speaking ill of the people of the blockading countries or insulting their symbols.
As 2018 approaches bringing with it new hope, we are reminded of this quote by the writer Mary Anne Radmacher. “As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.”
Qatar is surely lighting its own way ahead and setting an example for others.
More than six months into the siege, Qatar now stands on the cusp of a future filled with tremendous promise
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