Khalid Tawalbeh
Doha
US Ambassador to Qatar HE Timmy T Davis has highlighted the strategic importance of the US-Qatar alliance, stating that Doha’s willingness to do the hard work, its unique ability to talk with virtually anyone, and its readiness to mediate has aided "our efforts in stabilizing the region”.
In an exclusive interview with Qatar Tribune, the US ambassador shared a compelling perspective on pivotal US foreign policy initiatives in the Middle East.
Asked about the US-Qatar cooperation on cybersecurity, the US ambassador underscored the significance of cybersecurity in today’s interconnected world. "One of the things that were hugely important during the World Cup was ensuring cybersecurity,” Davis stated.
He highlighted the deep collaboration between Qatar and the US during the World Cup to ensure that these systems were secure.
"We worked together to make sure that all the systems here were functioning effectively and that people trusted their data was safe,” he said.
He pointed out that the future of artificial intelligence (AI) is a key factor that will require even more robust cybersecurity measures.
"The future of AI, in particular, is going to force us to think about cybersecurity in a way that we haven’t before,” he stressed, adding that while AI presents numerous benefits, its risks must be managed carefully.
"The world is coming to grips with the fact that there may be more benefits to AI than there are risks, but we have to manage those risks,” he said. "As Qatar steps out and wants to be part of an artificial intelligence future, it will have to use the strong relationship we’ve built with trusted vendors and partners, especially from the US.”
Answering a question on US involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the US ambassador highlighted the significant role Qatar has played.
He stated, "It has been a priority for us, and we were grateful that immediately, Qatar was a partner in helping us try to find a path toward peace.”
He underscored Qatar’s longstanding commitment to the Palestinian cause, noting that "Qatar has always been interested in the Palestinian cause” and has provided humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza for years.
He emphasized Qatar’s pivotal role in mediation efforts, stating, "Qatar has played an outsized role in this mediation.”
He pointed out that the US has been engaged in ongoing conversations with its partners, including Qatar, to navigate the path forward.