UK to Meet 20% of Gas Needs from Qatar

In an increasing sign that Qatar's relatively stable political climate and warm relations with the West is leading to a business pay-off, a British Trade Delegation currently in Qatar pointed out that Qatar will supply 20% of its future gas needs in the UK.

Qatar holds a huge percentage of the world's Natural Gas reserves; estimates vary from 14 - 19% of the world's gas lie beneath Qatar's land and seas. In addition, much of the rest of the world's gas lies with countries often at odds at the West: Iran and Russia. Iran is currently subject to sanctions while Russia is not averse to switching off gas supplies during regional disputes.

In contrast, Qatar is not only relatively peaceful but has also overhauled its legal system to encourage foreign investment in the country. While often criticising the West, and allowing its home-grown TV station Al Jazeera to do the same, it has also been a friend in time of need, and has allowed America to build a huge airbase here - a move that also guarantees security against other more aggressive countries in the area.