New Delhi, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier faced an unusual diplomatic hiccup during his visit to Qatar on Wednesday when he was left waiting for approximately 30 minutes upon his arrival in Doha. A video capturing the President standing at the gate of his plane with folded hands has circulated on social media.
The delay was reportedly attributed to the absence of Qatari officials at the airport to welcome President Steinmeier. Despite the presence of Germany’s ambassador to Qatar and a military honour guard, the formalities could only proceed when Sultan al-Muraichai, Qatar’s minister of state for foreign affairs, arrived, as reported by DW.
Despite the holdup, President Steinmeier managed to leave the airport on time for his scheduled meeting with Qatar’s ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
During his brief three-hour stay in Qatar, the discussions focused on the release of German hostages held by Hamas. President Steinmeier expressed optimism, stating, “I am sure Qatar will do everything in its power to contribute to the release of the German hostages.”
The German President acknowledged the challenges in difficult negotiation situations, emphasizing that guarantees are not feasible.
President Steinmeier’s visit to Qatar is part of a broader regional trip, which included stops in Israel and Oman.
