The new ruler of the Gulf State of Qatar has vowed that he would never tolerate sectarianism, and respect all religions in the region and the world as religious divisions would prevent modernization and development.
In his first address to the nation after taking over power from his father, 33-year-old Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani said on Wednesday that he would continue his father's reform agenda and growth projects.
"We are not part of any regional trend against any other. Qatar is committed to its promises and relations, but we have a vision and we don't wait for orders from anyone." Sheikh Tamim said in the speech broadcast by the Al Jazeera TV.
He said Qatar was committed to the Palestinian cause, and would work to end Israeli occupation.
A Cabinet reshuffle was also announced later naming former Minister of State for Internal Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani as Prime Minister and Interior Minister and Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah as Foreign Minister.
Sheikh Tamim took over from his father Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani who voluntarily abdicated after ruling the gas-rich country for 18 years.
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