Farewell to Qatar: A journey of diplomacy, partnership, progress

As I prepare to bid farewell to Qatar, I reflect with deep pride and gratitude on the extraordinary journey that has defined my tenure as the US ambassador to this dynamic and forward-looking nation. These past few years have been a testament to the strength and resilience of the US–Qatar relationship, anchored in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to progress that transcends borders.

From the very beginning, my mission was clear: to deepen the already strong bond between our two nations through diplomacy, cultural exchange, and strategic collaboration. The culmination of these efforts reached a historic milestone with the recent visit of President Donald J Trump to Doha. The warm welcome by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani was more than a diplomatic gesture. It reaffirmed our enduring friendship and marked a bold step forward in an evolving partnership.

The visit underscored our shared priorities in regional stability, economic growth, and global co-operation. Among its most consequential outcomes were a series of groundbreaking agreements between the United States and Qatar totalling more than $243bn — clear evidence of the depth of our economic and strategic alignment.

A centrepiece of this economic progress was Qatar Airways’ record-breaking purchase of American-made Boeing widebody aircraft and GE Aerospace engines, the largest such acquisition in the airline’s history. This investment illustrates Qatar’s confidence in US manufacturing and technology and highlights our shared ambition to elevate commercial ties to new heights.

Beyond aviation, energy co-operation has also been a cornerstone of this partnership. With the world’s third-largest natural gas reserves, Qatar plays an essential role in advancing global energy security. Since 2019, QatarEnergy has invested over $18bn in the US energy sector, including in flagship projects like ExxonMobil’s Golden Pass LNG Terminal and Chevron Phillips Chemical Company’s Golden Triangle Polymers facility, both in Texas. These investments not only strengthen our energy ties but also contribute to a more resilient, diversified, and sustainable energy future.

On the security front, the relationship between our armed forces remains ironclad. At the heart of this co-operation is Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US military installation in the Middle East and a vital hub for regional and global operations. Our strategic security partnership continues to grow through joint training and defence modernisation. During President Trump’s visit, Qatar signed significant defence agreements, including a $1bn contract with Raytheon for advanced counter-drone systems and a $2bn agreement with General Atomics for the MQ-9B remotely piloted aerial system. Additionally, a $38bn statement of intent was signed to enhance future air and maritime defence capabilities.

Yet the scope of the US–Qatar relationship extends far beyond commerce and defence. We have worked tirelessly to invest in the next generation through educational exchanges, expanded visa access, and cultural engagement. Qatar’s inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program made travel more accessible for Qatari citizens, streamlining travel for business, study, and tourism. And the recent launch of the new American Corner at the Community College of Qatar underscores our shared commitment to education and innovation, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to lead in a globalised world.

But perhaps most inspiring has been the shared commitment to regional peace and humanitarian leadership. Qatar continues to play a pivotal diplomatic role in some of the world’s most complex conflicts. The United States is proud to stand alongside Qatar in advancing efforts to de-escalate crises, support vulnerable populations, and champion diplomacy over division.

At its core, diplomacy is about people. The bonds we’ve built with government leaders, civil society, business pioneers, and everyday citizens will endure beyond any single diplomatic posting. These connections, forged in collaboration across communities, are the true foundation of a lasting alliance.

Looking ahead, I am confident in the future of our bilateral relationship. Qatar’s ambitious National Vision 2030 aligns closely with US priorities, offering expanded opportunities for cooperation in innovation, infrastructure, and human development. The US–Qatar partnership exemplifies what is possible when two nations collaborate with purpose and vision. Together, we are creating jobs, fostering prosperity, and advancing peace.

To my Qatari friends and partners: Thank you for your hospitality, your trust, and your steadfast dedication to this partnership. I leave with deep admiration for your nation’s achievements and great optimism for all that lies ahead.

Serving as the US ambassador to Qatar has been the greatest honour of my career. The bridges we’ve built — across policy, culture, and community — will endure long after I depart.

They say in diplomacy the hardest part is being so far away from home. Not so for me, as I’m lucky enough to now have two homes.

Shukran jazilan, Qatar. The journey continues.