DOHA: A Qatari envoy said the energy-rich nation will continue development projects in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, despite a rift with its Gulf neighbors stemming in part from its ties with the militant group.
Mohammed El-Amadi spoke Tuesday as he signed a new agreement with a Palestinian contractor to build eight residential buildings.
Qatar has been the largest single donor to Gaza over the past five years, disbursing about half a billion dollars for housing, reconstruction, infrastructure development and health projects.
Saudi Arabia and its allies have pressed Qatar to end its support to the pan-Arab Muslim Brotherhood movement, the historical parent of the Hamas group.
Hamas seized control of Gaza from forces loyal to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in 2007.
Qatar has hosted senior Hamas officials on its soil and is the largest financial patron to the Gaza Strip.
It argues its aid is for the Palestinian people rather than Hamas.
Mohammed El-Amadi spoke Tuesday as he signed a new agreement with a Palestinian contractor to build eight residential buildings.
Qatar has been the largest single donor to Gaza over the past five years, disbursing about half a billion dollars for housing, reconstruction, infrastructure development and health projects.
Saudi Arabia and its allies have pressed Qatar to end its support to the pan-Arab Muslim Brotherhood movement, the historical parent of the Hamas group.
Hamas seized control of Gaza from forces loyal to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in 2007.
Qatar has hosted senior Hamas officials on its soil and is the largest financial patron to the Gaza Strip.
It argues its aid is for the Palestinian people rather than Hamas.
