It is clear that geo-economics is at play in the rift between Qatar and Saudi Arabia and its allies (Editorial – “Diplomatic mayhem”, June 6). As the world has started moving to use natural gas, a much cleaner fuel than oil, Qatar has the potential to reap this opportunity. Other than Iran and Russia, Qatar is the only other country known to have significant reserves of natural gas. The rift is yet another instance of the U.S. meddling in the affairs of the Middle East in order to secure its fossil fuel supplies without getting its boots on the ground. Diplomatically for India, it is a case of wait andwatch. India’s reaction should be very cautious as it can’t afford to sever its ties with any of these countries.
Amit Kumar Upadhyay,
New Delhi
Leaving aside the rights and wrongs in the unprecedented decision, the move seems to have more to do with inter-factional rivalries in the Muslim world in the power struggle in West Asia than about isolating a nation aiding terrorism. India has wisely distanced itself from the stand-off. Though India is itself a victim of terrorism, it cannot afford to disturb its equilibrium with the oil-rich Arab world.
S. Vasudevan,
Chennai
