Qatar eases visa requirements for 80 nations

Qatar, embroiled in a diplomatic stand-off with four Middle East nations that have seen severe restrictions on its access to neighbouring airspace, has waived entry visa requirements for 80 nations. The air blockade was not directly referenced in the announcement of the move to ease visa requirements, but will be seen as the Gulf state attempting to head off any reductions in passenger numbers for Qatar Airways from potential customers uncertain about whether to travel on the carrier. It will also be seen by the 4 countries that accuse Qatar of aiding Islamist extremists and undermining their govts as a further sign of defiance. Of the 80 countries, passport-holders of 33— mainly European—will be able to receive a visa valid for 180 days that allows them to spend up to 90 days in the state on a multi-entry basis. <br/>