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The GCC Briefing 5 – 10 March 2017

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State of Qatar State of Qatar-img

Politics: In the Qatar National Convention Centre, during the Ceremony of Quitcom 2017, H.E Prime Minister and Interior, Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser Al-Thani presented, the Qatar Smart Programme Tasmu which is designed to boost economic and employment opportunities by investing in technological infrastructure in both private and public projects. According to Smart Qatar, the country intends to become a leader in the spheres of smart cities and ICT.

​Politics: Qatar strongly refuted accusations of being involved in Libya’s conflict according a source at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Last week, Libya’s parliament charged that Qatar and Turkey support the forces that attacked the Oil Crescent area. This area of oil terminals provides much of Libya’s export income.

Al-Fateh Grand Mosque in Bahrain

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Security: Bahrain’s Ministry of Justice decided to dissolve the largest opposition left-wing party the National Democratic Action Society—Waad. The Ministry accuses Waad of supporting terrorism and sedition. The group leader Radhi al- Moosawi expressed shock and would fight the order in court.

Terrorism: Bahrain broke up a 54-member terrorist group, arrested some 25 members while the rest managed to evade the police raids. Authorities found larger quantities of explosives, detonators and hand grenades, pistols, AK47s and ammunition. The group’s leader is at large in Germany.

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State of Kuwait Sultanate of Oman-img

Security: US President, Donald Trump, is considering sending a further 1000 soldiers to Kuwait to potentially joining the fight against the Islamic State.

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Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Kingdom of Saudi Arabia-img

Politics: US President, Donald Trump, agreed to resume arms sales to Saudi Arabia rescinding (former) President Obama’s blocking of an arms deal with Riyadh citing human rights concerns.

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United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates-img

Diplomacy: Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, HH Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, travelled to Africa with a message of solidarity from the UAE. This comes soon after his visit to Madagascar where he pledged – and delivered – aid to support those affected by Cyclone Enawo.

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Sultanate of Oman Sultanate of Oman-img

Diplomacy: The Sultan of Oman, Qaboos, welcomed Iranian President, Hassan Rouhani to the Omani capital—Muscat.