New York, 13 July 2023 (TDI): The State of Qatar and the Republic of the Marshall Islands inked a joint statement to establish diplomatic relations between them on July 12 at the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations in New York.
Establishment of Diplomatic relations between Qatar and the Marshall Islands
The Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya, and her counterpart from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Matlain Elizabeth Kabua, officially signed a joint statement, marking the commencement of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The two sides expressed their confidence that the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries would contribute towards the development of bilateral cooperation.
They also shared their firm belief that diplomatic relations would enhance mutual collaboration across diverse fields between the two nations. The establishment of diplomatic ties between Doha and Majuro would ultimately benefit the people of both countries.
History of Marshall Islands
The Republic of the Marshall Islands comprises 29 coral atolls and low-lying islands situated in the central and northern Pacific Ocean. The Micronesian island nation has a complex and complicated colonial history.
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In the aftermath of World War I, the Marshall Islands underwent a significant transition when Germany gave its control to Japan, under the Treaty of Versailles 1919.
After being occupied by the United States during World War II, the Marshall Islands were formally handed over to the United States under Security Council Resolution 21. Furthermore, the Republic of the Marshall Islands officially established a self-governing entity in 1979 and finally gained independence in 1986.
Opportunities for the Republic of Marshall Island
The establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries marks a significant push for the Republic of Marshall Island’s international standing, underscoring the rising interest and relevance of the island nation in global affairs.
Moreover, the diplomatic ties present a favourable opportunity for the Republic to cultivate economic connections and strengthen cooperation with Qatar. Given its island status, the Republic of Marshall Islands possesses the potential to capitalize on its natural beauty and develop a tourism sector, thereby driving economic prosperity.
Before establishing diplomatic relations with Qatar, the Republic of Marshall Islands has already shared diplomatic ties with Turkey, Kuwait, and Lebanon in the Middle East.
