Qatar-U.S. Relations in a Changing Global and Regional Landscape

Amb. (ret.) Susan L. Ziadeh

Topic: Qatar-U.S. Relations in a Changing Global and Regional Landscape
Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Place: Irondequoit Country Club: 4045 East Ave. [14618]
Time: 6:00 Cocktails; 7:00 Dinner; 8:00 Speaker Presentation followed by Q and A
Cost: $55 per person ($58 if paying online), buffet style. Cash Bar
Dinner: Buffet style – 2 protein options, 1 vegetarian option

***Registration Policy: For reservations, please email MemberServices@WACROC.org. Mail your
check for the dinner[s] to: WACR, PO Box 25462, Rochester, NY 14625 no later than March 4, 2025.

Qatar, a small state in the Persian Gulf, surrounded by larger neighbors, is energy rich. It has emerged as a major player on the global stage, engaged in diplomacy and mediation, maintaining channels of communication with state and non-state actors in the face of regional conflict. Its hydrocarbon wealth, soft power through satellite Al Jazeerah, educational initiatives, and sports are key pillars of Qatar’s efforts to present itself to the world and shape its narrative. Its proximity to major shipping lanes and its extensive network of international air routes have cemented Qatar’s position as a hub for global connectivity.

The country has invested heavily in diversifying its economy, with a focus on sectors such as tourism, finance, and technology. The Qatar Investment Authority, one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, has played a key role in driving economic growth and development.

Despite its rapid modernization, Qatar remains deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. The Museum of Islamic Art, designed by I.M. Pei, is a world-renowned institution that houses an extensive collection of Islamic art and artifacts. As Qatar looks to the future, the Qatar National Vision 2030, a comprehensive development plan, outlines the country’s ambitions for economic, social, and environmental progress. With its strong leadership, innovative spirit, and commitment to progress, Qatar is poised to remain a major player on the global stage for years to come. US-Qatar relations, rooted in regional security and economic growth, continue to be tested in a turbulent neighborhood.

Ambassador Susan L. Ziadeh was the U.S. Ambassador to the State of Qatar and more recently served as the acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, and the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Peninsula Affairs.

Currently a Middle East strategic advisor based in Washington, Ambassador Ziadeh is also an Adjunct Profes- sor at Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service. Ambassador Ziadeh is a member of the Mid- dle East Institute’s Board of Governors, a member of the International Advisors Council for the American Uni- versity of Beirut, Lebanon and a member of the American Academy of Diplomacy. A Fulbright scholar in Egypt and Lebanon, Ambassador Ziadeh earned a PhD in History from the University of Michigan, an M.A. from the American University of Beirut, an M.S. (Distinguished Scholar) from the National War College, National Defense University, and a B.A. from the University of Washington.

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