[19991006]RS20354_卡塔尔：背景和美国关系.pdf

The term “Shaykh” (or Sheikh) is an honorific title, which can mean a ruler, a tribal leader, or1a venerable religious figure. It should be pronounced with a long A (as in “say”), not a long E (asin “see”). The term “Emir” (or Amir), often translated as prince, can also mean a monarch or aruler in the Gulf region.Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS20354October 6, 1999Qatar: Background and U.S. RelationsAlfred B. PradosSpecialist in Middle East AffairsJoshua RuebnerAnalyst in Middle East AffairsForeign Affairs, Defense, and Trade DivisionSummaryQatar, a small peninsular state bordering Saudi Arabia in the Persian Gulf, is amonarchy governed by the Al Thani family. In recent years, the ruler of Qatar, SheikhHamad bin Khalifah Al Thani, has embarked upon a limited course of politicalliberalization. Qatars oil production of roughly 600,000 barrels per day gives it a percapita national income comparable to that of major industrial countries. In 1992, Qatarand the United States concluded a Defense Cooperation Agreement. Qatar has adopteda more conciliatory stance toward Iraq and Iran, while supporting inc