Qatar's diplomatic balancing act

Qatar, economically dependent on both Iran and the United States, will need to draw on its renowned diplomatic skills to maintain relations with both.

Qatar's diplomatic relationship with Iran sets it apart from its neighbours. While most Gulf states keep Iran at a distance, Doha, the Qatari capital, often appears keen to close the gap.

While Hillary Clinton, the US secretary of state, toured the Gulf this week, trying to drum up support for new sanctions against Iran, Qatar has spoken out in favour of Tehran's right to develop nuclear technology.

Al Jazeera's Dan Nolan reports from Doha on the trickiest diplomatic task the country has yet taken on.

[February 20, 2010]