Qatar will soon announce the establishment of a new defence centre as part of efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid heightened regional tensions, the country's deputy prime minister and minister of state for defence affairs said on Monday.
Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani made the announcement at the opening of the Global Security Forum in Doha, revealing that Qatar was working with regional partners, the United States, Britain and France to enhance its capabilities in ammunition, air defence, counter-drone systems and cybersecurity.
The minister said Qatar was also exploring domestic production and investment opportunities in certain defence sectors, while maintaining a state of readiness for potential crises in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and other security agencies.
His remarks come amid continuing regional tensions and efforts to prevent further instability from the US-Israeli war involving Iran.
Addressing developments in the region, Sheikh Saoud stressed the importance of diplomatic coordination, saying that mediation efforts by Qatar, Pakistan and Oman complemented one another and required close cooperation to achieve their objectives.
He also called for regional dialogue involving Turkey and Pakistan once the war ends.
The Qatari official reaffirmed that Doha had maintained communication with Iran despite disagreements between the two countries, expressing hope that Qatar would not face another attack following the strike on Ras Laffan.
In March, Iran launched missile attacks on Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City, triggering fires and causing material damage.
Qatar's foreign ministry condemned the attack at the time as a dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of its sovereignty, warning that it posed a direct threat to national security and regional stability.
The announcement comes as Doha hosts the Global Security Forum from 19 to 21 October under the theme "The Future of Alliances".
The annual international gathering brings together leaders and experts from around the world to discuss shifting global dynamics, emerging security challenges and international cooperation.
The forum provides a platform for policymakers and security specialists to examine major threats facing the international community and explore opportunities for dialogue and collaboration.