Special to WorldTribune.com

ABU DHABI — Qatar, after years of an independent foreign and
security policy, has reached out to the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Arab diplomatic sources said Qatar’s new emir has led a drive to improve
ties with the six-member GCC.

The sources said Emir Tamim Bin Hamad has been consulting with Saudi Arabia and other GCC members on such issues as regional and energy security.

“Tamim is doing something that his father never did — pay homage to the GCC,” a regional diplomat said.

In late October, Tamim embarked on his first GCC tour. The 33-year-old emir, who entered the position in June 2013, visited Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Hamad, who succeeded Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, had visited Saudi Arabia in August.

“My visit to Bahrain stems from a keenness to exchange viewpoints
regarding all issues and bolstering bilateral cooperation,” Tamim said.

During his tour, Tamim pledged to expand bilateral relations and
cooperation with GCC states. The emir was also quoted as saying that Qatar
would stress consultations on regional security, particularly regarding
Iran.

The sources said Qatar sought to form strategic relations with Saudi
Arabia, the leader of the GCC. They said cooperation would include energy
and investment.

  Emir Tamim Bin Hamad, Gulf Cooperation Council, Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, New Qatari emir moves to reconnect with fellow Gulf states