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Taiwan President Lai Ching-te posted pictures on social media of himself eating Japanese-sourced sushi Thursday to show his support for Japan in a bitter and worsening diplomatic dispute with China. According to two government officials in Tokyo, Beijing has indicated it will halt Japanese seafood imports following a rise in tensions since Japan's new prime minister suggested Tokyo could intervene militarily if China attacked Taiwan. "What are you eating? Now is perhaps a good time to eat Japanese food," the president said in the post on his Facebook and Instagram accounts showing him sitting on a sofa holding up chopsticks and a plate of sushi. "It fully shows the firm friendship between Taiwan and Japan," he said of the sushi, which included ingredients from Taiwan such as cuttlefish as well as yellowtail from Kagoshima in Japan and scallops from the Japanese island of Hokkaido.Taiwan's government, which rejects sovereignty claims by China, has in recent years been subjected to similar food export bans by Beijing, including of Taiwanese pineapples and fish, in what Taipei has said is part of a Chinese pressure campaign.Speaking to reporters at parliament earlier Thursday, Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said China's use of economic coercion and military intimidation to "bully other nations are already too numerous to mention individually. "At this critical juncture, we must also support Japan in effectively stabilising the situation and halting the Chinese communists' bullying behaviour," he said. Addressing lawmakers later, Lin said Taiwanese should make more visits to Japan and buy more Japanese goods to show their friendship with the country.In Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Taiwan was an inseparable part of China's territory. "No matter what show the Lai Ching-te authorities put on, it cannot change this ironclad fact," she added. Beijing views Taiwan as its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to take control of the island. Taiwan's government rejects Beijing's claims and says only the island's people can decide their future.

China has advised its citizens to avoid travelling to Japan, following a diplomatic feud sparked by remarks from Tokyo’s new premier about a hypothetical attack on Taiwan. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told parliament on November 7 that use of force against the self-ruled island claimed by China could warrant a military response from Tokyo. On Friday, Beijing said that it had summoned Japan’s ambassador, while Tokyo said it had summoned China’s ambassador after an “inappropriate” and now-removed online post. Tokyo has since said its position on Taiwan, just 100km from the nearest Japanese island, is unchanged. In an online post late Friday, China’s embassy in Japan warned its citizens against travelling to the country. “Recently, Japanese leaders have made blatantly provocative remarks regarding Taiwan, severely damaging the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges,” the WeChat post said. The situation presents “significant risks to the personal safety and lives of Chinese citizens in Japan”, it added. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan solemnly remind Chinese citizens to avoid travelling to Japan in the near future.” **media[382304]** Reacting to the statement, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told reporters Saturday that Beijing’s call was “inconsistent with the promotion of a strategic and mutually beneficial relationship”, Jiji Press reported. The Japanese government has requested the Chinese side to take “appropriate measures”, Jiji reported. In a further development Saturday, China’s largest airlines offered full refunds for flights on Japan routes before the end of the year. Air China, China Southern and China Eastern all published separate statements on the policies, which will allow ticket holders to refund or change Japan itineraries free of charge for flights from Saturday through December 31. Beijing insists Taiwan, which Japan occupied for decades until 1945, is part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to seize control. China and Japan are key trading partners, but historical mistrust and friction over territorial rivalries and military spending often test those ties. Takaichi, a conservative and China hawk, has toned down her rhetoric since assuming office last month. But just weeks into her administration, the neighbours are at odds. Addressing parliament on November 7, Takaichi said that an armed attack on Taiwan could warrant sending troops to the island under “collective self-defence”. If an emergency in Taiwan entails “battleships and the use of force, then that could constitute a situation threatening the survival (of Japan), any way you slice it”, she said. Security legislation passed in 2015 allows Japan to exercise the right to “collective self-defence” under certain conditions including if there was a clear danger to the country’s survival. **media[382305]** Despite the escalating diplomatic spat, Takaichi has indicated she has no intention of retracting her statement and insisted it was consistent with Tokyo’s long-standing policy. But she said she would refrain from referring to specific scenarios in the future. Previous Japanese prime ministers have avoided commenting directly on Taiwan’s defence, choosing instead to maintain so-called strategic ambiguity. The United States has also long been deliberately ambiguous on whether it would deploy its military to defend Taiwan. The most recent row escalated last weekend when the Chinese consul general in Osaka, Xue Jian, posted about “(cutting) off that dirty neck”, apparently referring to Takaichi. Japan lodged a protest over the since-removed social media post, and Takaichi’s ruling party passed a resolution calling for the envoy to be declared persona non grata. Before taking power, Takaichi, an acolyte of ex-premier Shinzo Abe, was a vocal critic of China and its military build-up in the Asia-Pacific. Takaichi has visited Taiwan in the past and met Taipei’s representative at a recent Apec summit, where she also held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has participated in the International Diplomatic Training Forum (IFDT), organized by the Peruvian Diplomatic Academy from Nov 11 to 14 in Cusco, Peru. More than 50 diplomatic academies and institutes from around the world participated.The Diplomatic Institute was represented at the forum by His Excellency Director of the Institute Dr Abdulaziz bin Mohammed al-Horr. In his address to the forum, HE al-Horr emphasized that the global diplomatic environment is undergoing rapid transformation, necessitating the adoption of innovative training methods that transcend traditional models. He noted that contemporary diplomats require new skills, including flexibility, emotional intelligence, networking, and the ability to address transnational challenges. The forum also witnessed the official announcement of Qatar, represented by the Diplomatic Institute, being selected to host the 52nd annual meeting of the International Diplomatic Training Forum (IFDT) next year.

Peru announced that it is severing diplomatic relations with Mexico after the latter granted asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez.Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela said in a press statement, “Given this unfriendly act, the Peruvian government has decided to sever diplomatic relations with Mexico as of today,” following the Mexican embassy’s decision to offer refuge to Betssy Chávez in Lima.Chávez was appointed Prime Minister of Peru in November 2022 during the administration of former President Pedro Castillo but resigned just days later amid a severe political crisis in the country.She faces criminal charges for her alleged involvement in Castillo’s attempt to dissolve Congress in December of the same year—an act the judiciary ruled unconstitutional.

His Excellency Sheikh Meshal bin Hamad Al-Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the United States inaugurated the new building of the Qatari Embassy in Washington, D.C., in a ceremony attended by a number of members of the US administration and Congress, prominent political, economic, and social figures, policy advisors, think tank representatives, and members of the Arab and foreign diplomatic corps.In his address during the ceremony, His Excellency affirmed that the opening of the new embassy building is a clear reflection of the strong and enduring relations between the State of Qatar and the United States of America.He expressed hope that the new mission premises would serve as a new milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two countries across all fields.His Excellency reiterated Qatar's continued commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in the political, economic, cultural, and educational spheres, noting that the new embassy building serves as a platform for promoting engagement and mutual understanding.He emphasized the importance of the ongoing and steadfast coordination between the State of Qatar and the United States in establishing stability and peace, and in achieving prosperity and well-being for the peoples of the region through cooperation based on the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the sovereignty of states.Held in partnership with Qatar Foundation, the Qatari Ministry of Defense, Qatar Airways, and Formula One, the ceremony featured a musical performance by Qatari composer and artist Dana Al Fardan, whose work skillfully reflected Qatari culture and folk heritage.The new embassy building is located in the heart of Washington, D.C., occupying the historic administrative building of the Carnegie Institution for Science.Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965, the building is considered one of the most significant architectural landmarks in the city.The facility includes dedicated spaces for diplomatic engagement, cultural and educational programs, consular services, and community outreach, enhancing the embassy's mission to deepen ties between the peoples of both nations and to promote cooperation in trade, security, education, and cultural exchange.

The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres praised the State of Qatar for its pivotal diplomatic role in facilitating the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and supporting efforts to sustain calm, stressing that Qatari mediation efforts were instrumental in achieving this progress.In an official statement, he welcomed the continued implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza, based on the proposal presented by US President Donald Trump regarding the release of Israeli captives and Palestinian detainees. He also commended the United States, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Republic of Turkiye for their persistent mediation efforts, and acknowledged the indispensable role of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in ensuring that all releases take place safely and humanely.The Secretary-General noted that the United Nations and its partners are rapidly scaling up humanitarian operations across the Gaza Strip, with UN agencies reaching areas that had been cut off for months to deliver life-saving assistance.He underlined that these efforts mark an essential step toward stabilizing conditions and restoring basic human dignity, while emphasizing that humanitarian needs remain vast and that sustained access and adequate funding are critical.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, who is currently visiting New Delhi. Radio Canada International reported that Anand's three-day visit to New Delhi comes at a time when the two countries are working to strengthen relations after two years of diplomatic tension. Anand said that the meeting with the Indian Prime Minister aimed to build on the momentum gained when Modi visited Canada last June, where he met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

The embassy of Austria Sunday received the ‘Austria Luxury Showcase’ tourism delegation to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between Qatar and Austria. Aimed to foster co-operation in the field of tourism, the event brought together leading representatives and stakeholders from the tourism sector while providing an excellent opportunity for exchange and networking.The event was attended by ambassador of Austria Erika Bernhard along with representatives from various Qatari and Austrian entities.While addressing the event, the ambassador noted that Austria and Qatar are celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations this year in a very constructive exchange in multiple sectors. “Austria and Qatar have been connected in friendship and in a very constructive exchange for such a long time. So we count on the success of the co-operation for the next 50 years. We can do even more,” she said.In the context of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the ambassador said, the Austrian embassy launched a series of events in mid-September. An exchange was made between the IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences in Austria and the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST). A high-level delegation from IMC Krems visited UDST to indicate a potential for future co-operation between the two institutions.“Our aim is to promote exchange between young people because they are the future. If they know each other better, understand each other’s cultures better, it’s good for all of us. The Austrian embassy together with the Austrian Trade Commission hosted a series of Austrian Business Council meetings. We are trying to contribute to intensifying the business exchange between our countries,” she said.As part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Katara Cultural Village hosted a cultural event entitled ‘Culinary Arts’ in co-operation with the Austrian embassy in Doha. This year Austria Tourism puts a particular focus on Qatar to foster co-operation in the field of tourism.‘Austria Luxury Showcase’ promises an experience of unparalleled elegance and sophistication and the opportunity to delve into the epitome of Austrian luxury as you explore the imperial treasures and alpine elegance.As part of the delegation visit, a destination dialogue, evening visit to Souq Waqif and farewell breakfast will be held. The event will come to an end on September 30.

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit discussed with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip caused by Israel's ongoing war against civilians, and its negative repercussions on diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire and ending the conflict.According to a statement issued by the Arab League, both sides underlined the importance of the upcoming conference on implementing the two-state solution, scheduled to be held in New York on Monday.They also emphasized the need to advance the principles of the New York Declaration, issued last July, as a serious and practical framework for ending the occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967, borders. In this context, Aboul Gheit welcomed the growing number of international recognitions of the State of Palestine, stressing that they provide increasing momentum toward a peaceful settlement based on the two-state solution.The talks further reviewed developments in Sudan and Syria, in addition to a range of regional and international issues of common concern.

Katara Cultural Village has opened the “Progress and Procession Museum” exhibition to feature artworks and paintings and calligraphy.The exhibition by Qatari artist Khawla Mohamed Abdulaziz al-Mannai was opened by Katara general manager Prof Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti in the presence of representatives of diplomatic missions, artists and art enthusiasts.To run until September 13 at Hall 2 of Building 18 at Katara, the exhibition features nearly 80 diverse artworks combining textiles, realistic, abstract and impressionistic painting along with Arabic calligraphy.It documents al-Mannai's career from her debut in 1990 to 2025 while reflecting the stages of artistic life she has gone through from study and learning to creativity and participation in local and international exhibitions.The exhibition highlights the richness of her artistic experience and the diversity of her styles and techniques.Through her paintings, she presents multiple artistic schools that reveal the interweaving of memories and personal experiences.It also addresses cultural themes with a local flavour such as horses, women, the lighthouse and the sewing machine, opening windows onto the past.The exhibition draws inspiration from other elements influenced by her exposure to diverse global cultures while highlighting the importance of art in building bridges of communication between civilisations.The works on display reflect al-Mannai’s precision and patience as well as the depth of her philosophy, which combines creativity and skill.Thus, the exhibition provides an opportunity for visitors to gain a closer insight into the artist’s creative journey and discover her artistic vision.Al-Mannai studied art in Qatar, learning textile science at Helwan University in Egypt before developing her artistic style while studying abstract art at the University of the Arts in Britain.She believes that artistic style is born of the moment and the idea, and therefore expresses her art in a variety of ways.She has participated in numerous exhibitions both inside and outside Qatar representing the country at international art forums.Among her most notable works is the painting *A Woman from the Past, which was exhibited in Morocco, Britain and France in collaboration with the former ministry of information and the Amiri Diwan.Throughout her career, she received several painting awards from Qatar and the Gulf states and was honoured in Kuwait in 2019 for her research on *Sadu weaving.Al-Mannai was also honoured by the ruler of Sharjah in recognition of her efforts in collecting folk tales.A number of her works has been acquired by prestigious museums and institutions, while two of her textile paintings are on display in a Swiss museum.These works were created with love and dedication, especially those that depict the names of God and verses from the Holy Qur'an.

The Diplomatic Club, one of Qatar’s most prestigious destinations for hospitality and leisure, has announced the launch of its new visual identity, a statement said Saturday. "The transformation includes a newly designed logo that blends Qatari authenticity with contemporary elegance, while preserving the Club’s core values as a gathering place for elites and a provider of world-class services across dining, events, sports, and recreation. "The new identity represents more than just a design change it is a promise of a holistic experience that embraces the future while honouring the Club’s distinguished heritage. "The new logo symbolises a striking fusion of traditional Qatari elements and modern design, serving as a visual expression of the Club’s values of authenticity, luxury, refined hospitality, cultural preservation, and openness to the world." Aisha al-Marzouqi, general manager of The Diplomatic Club, stated: “The launch of our new logo and visual identity reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and to maintaining our position as a true icon of refined hospitality in Doha. "We sought to express our rich history while also showcasing our forward-looking vision one that embraces future achievements, successes, and contributions to the development of Qatar’s hospitality sector. The new identity will be rolled out across all Club facilities, digital platforms, and special events starting September 1, with every detail serving as a testament to this significant transformation.” The new logo embodies a harmonious balance between traditional Qatari symbols and modern design elements, symbolizing the connection between past and future while reinforcing the Club’s position as an exclusive destination for business leaders, diplomats, and families alike. Through this milestone, The Diplomatic Club continues to strengthen its standing as Qatar’s premier destination for the elite where elegance meets modernity, and tradition blends seamlessly with innovation, the statement added.

In the framework of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Qatar, as well as the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Embassy of Mexico in Qatar and the Embassy of Qatar in Mexico, Gulf Times had the privilege of sitting down with former Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency José Antonio Meade, a respected Mexican leader who has served as Secretary of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Social Development, and Energy. A Yale and ITAM graduate, Meade is recognized for his deep commitment to public service and his work toward economic stability, social development, and international diplomacy.During the conversation, Meade shared valuable insights on the collaborative work being carried out to strengthen ties between Qatar and Latin America, highlighting the opportunities for deeper economic, cultural, and political engagement. He also reflected on the evolving future of the Middle East, emphasizing the region’s role as a dynamic hub for dialogue, innovation, and international cooperation.This interview was made possible thanks to the support of Universidad Panamericana in Mexico City, whose commitment to fostering academic and diplomatic dialogue continues to enrich global understanding.