Qatar

Traditional dhow boats are moored along the Doha Corniche on a warm summer afternoon, with the city's skyline in the background. As temperatures climb across Qatar, the waterfront continues to showcase the country's rich maritime heritage alongside its modern urban landscape.

The Permanent Mission of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva, in co-operation with the Doha International Family Institute, organised a side event yesterday on ‘Family Well-being and Resilience in Times of Conflict’. The event was held on the sidelines of the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, and was attended by representatives of diplomatic missions in Geneva, international and regional organisations, and civil society organisations concerned with family and social development issues. Her Excellency the Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN Office at Geneva Dr. Hind Abdulrahman al-Muftah and Doha International Family Institute executive director Dr Sharifa al-Emadi spoke at the event. Other speakers included UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Education Farida Shahid, UN Committee on the Rights of the Child vice-chair Dr Philippe Jaffe, and Doha International Family Institute director (Family Research and Policy) Dr Ahmed Aref. The discussion was moderated by Hafez al-Hashemi, UN Policy Director at Family Watch International.

The First Gulf-Arab Conference for Training and Development, organised by the International Federation for Training and Development (IFTD), commenced in Cairo Friday. Themed From the Gulf to the Ocean: Bridges of Knowledge and Development, the two-day conference brings together representatives from 15 Arab countries, including a delegation from Qatar. A select group of leaders and officials from training and development institutions, government and private entities, academics, researchers, entrepreneurs, trainers, experts, representatives of research and studies institutions, media professionals, and content creators are participating. The opening session of the conference was attended by Qatar’s ambassador to Egypt and Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the League of Arab States, Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulrahman bin Mohammed al-Thani and the director-general of the Arab Organisation for Administrative Development, affiliated with the League of Arab States, Dr Nasser al-Hatlan al-Qahtani. In his address during the opening session, IFTD president Dr Dera Muajeb al-Dosari said that the conference is a continuation of a series of training and development conferences, three of which were held in Doha in 2023, 2024, and 2025. He expressed his appreciation for Egypt’s hosting of the conference and for the efforts of Qatar’s embassy in Egypt in ensuring its success. Dr al-Dosari also expressed his gratitude to His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, the chairman of the conference’s strategic partner Al Faisal Holding, and to the IFTD honorary president, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani. He voiced hope that the conference would be a success and represent a step towards greater co-operation and integration among Arab countries. He noted that the IFTD will hold its next conference in Oman on September 15-16, under the title of “The Family Institution Between Identity and Current Challenges”, as well as the first conference on civil diplomacy and volunteer work in Sousse, Tunisia, on September 26-27. Dr al-Dosari also mentioned the first Kuwait Conference on Training and Development, to be held on October 2-3, and announced the establishment of the International Academy for Civil Diplomacy in Tunisia. He told the Qatar News Agency (QNA) that “the main objective of the conference is to build and develop Arab human resources, considering them one of the most important resources that must be managed efficiently and effectively”. Dr al-Dosari said that the conference will include working papers and specialised sessions on topics such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and construction and development. He indicated that the conference’s outcomes and recommendations will be submitted to civil service bureaus and human resources departments throughout the Arab world to be used in developing policies and practices related to human resource development. The first session of the conference featured a presentation of several success stories in the field of training and development, including one by Jamil Obaid Mohammed Turki on “The Community College in Qatar: A Success Story and a Model to Emulate in Higher Education”. The conference agenda included panel discussions, workshops, and specialised recommendations to keep pace with the rapid developments in education, training, and development. The aim was to establish an integrated system between education and the labour market and to formulate an implementation roadmap that would bridge the gap between the outputs of educational institutions and the rapidly evolving demands of the Gulf and Arab labour markets.

Qatar Charity (QC) has launched a major humanitarian campaign titled “Every Refugee Tent Holds a Story” to mark World Refugee Day, which is observed annually on June 20. The initiative aims to shed light on the harsh realities faced by displaced populations worldwide, amplify their hopes for a better future, and deliver integrated relief and development aid to the most vulnerable communities. Aligning with global efforts to protect displaced people, the campaign focuses on safeguarding refugee rights and easing their daily hardships. By securing vital food, water, shelter, and medical care, the initiative works to restore basic living standards. Through this targeted push, the QC is mobilising both public and institutional support to ensure refugee families can rebuild their lives in safety, stability, and dignity. With the support of donors, the campaign targets refugees from several countries, including Afghanistan, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Myanmar (Rohingya refugees), Syria, and Palestine. These populations are hosted across several countries such as Pakistan, Ethiopia, Chad, Egypt, Kenya, Djibouti, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Jordan, Turkiye, and Lebanon. The campaign focuses on a wide range of humanitarian interventions. These include the provision of food, clean water, and sanitation services, as well as shelter support and non-food items. It also covers healthcare services, access to education for children, and programmes that strengthen refugees’ resilience and ability to cope with displacement conditions. These efforts aim to improve living conditions and help restore stability in their daily lives. Abdulaziz Jassim Hejji, the executive director of communications and community impact at the QC, urged donors and the public to support the cause. He noted that the suffering of refugees is a daily reality for families who have lost everything, adding that every donation brings hope and warmth back to camps exhausted by waiting. Refugee aid is a major part of the QC’s interventions. In 2025, the organisation spent QR645mn on relief projects, helping 10mn people globally. The largest portion of this aid went to urgent humanitarian situations in Palestine (including Gaza), Syria, and Sudan. Donors can contribute to the campaign through multiple convenient channels. Options include using the QC’s website or mobile app, calling the hotline at 44290000, or requesting a “Home Collector” through the application. Donations are also accepted in person at Qatar Charity branches and collection booths inside local shopping malls.

As Souq Waqif welcomes residents and tourists seeking a cultural escape from the summer heat, potter Sameh Farag continues a tradition that began long before Qatar’s modern skyline. Along the corridor of Souq Waqif’s trade centre leading to Farag’s store, 18 of 20 souvenir shops sell products manufactured in other countries. Holding onto the traditional spirit the market represents, his workshop is filled exclusively with handmade pottery. “My friend and I, and others from Egypt, were sent to work in Qatar and make handicrafts with clay, glass and any material,” Farag said, explaining that the aim was to reduce reliance on manufactured goods in souvenir shops. Since arriving in Qatar 15 years ago, he has channelled his artistry through the cultures of both his adopted home and his birthplace. Traditional Qatari symbols sit alongside familiar Egyptian figures, reflecting the cultural influences that define his work. Farag’s pottery practice comes from a long line of craftsmen in his family. Growing up, he watched his father work with clay, learning the same techniques his grandfather had passed down. “I am continuing what they started, shaping clay the same way they did, but in a new place,” Farag said. With Souq Waqif remaining a key destination for visitors seeking a glimpse of Qatar’s heritage, the potter hopes his craftsmanship will continue to be part of that experience, where handmade work can stand out amid the growing presence of mass-produced goods.

The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) announced Thursday that the Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Boys has received STEM accreditation from Cognia, a global non-profit organisation and one of the world's leading institutions for educational accreditation and school development.In a statement, the ministry said that this accreditation followed a rigorous and comprehensive review that resulted in an exceptional evaluation of the school, which received a score of 3.9 out of 4, significantly exceeding the required accreditation threshold of 2.7.The MoEHE emphasised that this distinction reflects the high quality of the school's educational outcomes.The ministry further noted that this accreditation transcends the traditional model of school evaluation, representing an "international endorsement" and a strategic partnership that grants the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) curriculum global recognition and high credibility.This confirms, the MoEHE stated, to prestigious universities worldwide that the school's outcomes meet international standards and helps overcome obstacles to academic admission for its students in vital fields such as medicine, engineering, and computer science.The ministry also noted that this accreditation will enhance the quality of teaching performance by monitoring student engagement and designing lessons tailored to their abilities.It will also provide professional development programmes that meet teachers' actual needs, eliminating unnecessary logistical burdens.The ministry further said that, under this accreditation, the school is committed to a continuous, evidence-based evaluation framework covering three strategic pillars: leadership, learning, and resource efficiency.This, the MoEHE added, ensures the establishment of a balanced institutional environment that integrates the quality of educational outcomes with the efficiency of operational processes.

Qatar Charity (QC) continues to prioritise raising awareness of refugee issues and mobilising support through integrated humanitarian campaigns, field interventions, and international partnerships.According to the QC, such efforts aim to meet basic needs and help refugees restore stability and live with dignity.This comes as part of the observance of World Refugee Day 2026, observed on June 20, which highlights the suffering of millions of refugees worldwide and emphasises that protecting the most vulnerable is a shared responsibility.Millions of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) benefit from the QC’s various campaigns, including seasonal and specialised initiatives.Through campaigns such as Ramadan, winter, and Udhiyah (Qurbani), support is directed to countries most affected by displacement, particularly Palestine (including the Gaza Strip), Syria, Sudan, Yemen, and Somalia.**media[459076]**The organisation has also launched dedicated campaigns to support those affected by displacement, alongside initiatives to address drought in several African countries, helping to ease suffering and strengthen resilience.In mid-June 2026, the QC launched a campaign titled “Every Refugee Tent Holds a Story” in conjunction with World Refugee Day, aiming to mobilise support through integrated interventions that include food, water, sanitation, shelter, healthcare, education, and livelihood support.The campaign targets refugees from crisis-affected countries, including Afghanistan, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Myanmar, Syria, and Palestine, across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.Figures reflect the scale of the QC’s work.In 2025, it implemented humanitarian projects worth QR645mn, benefiting more than 10mn people, mainly in countries affected by displacement.The QC has maintained a strategic partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) since 2012, contributing over $60mn over the past decade to support its programmes in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, helping more than 2.1mn forcibly displaced people.The QC’s efforts extend beyond emergency relief to long-term, high-impact projects.These include the Zaatari Health Centre in Jordan, which serves tens of thousands of Syrian refugees in the camp, and Al-Amal City in northern Syria, which comprises 1,400 housing units with integrated facilities and accommodates around 8,800 people.**media[459075]**The organisation has also rehabilitated approximately 1,800 homes in rural Hama and the Al Ghab Plain.So far this year the QC also provided emergency shelter for Sudanese refugees in Chad through 600 tents, benefiting 4,200 people, as part of its rapid response to displacement crises.The organisation further contributed to rebuilding 326 homes for Rohingya refugees following fires in Cox’s Bazar camp in Bangladesh, in addition to delivering hundreds of other housing units.As part of strengthening partnerships, the QC is expected to sign a $10mn agreement with the Islamic Development Bank, in its capacity as Trustee of the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR), to support sustainable financing and advance long-term solutions.

The Doha Design District (DDD) has unveiled its new initiative “Mada & Sada”, a platform designed to support creatives from the first spark of an idea through design, production and exhibition, creating a space where innovation meets cultural expression.The initiative was launched during a special evening featuring live performances, immersive creative experiences, cultural exchange and an exclusive preview of shortlisted submissions from the DDD’s Public Art Open Call.Speaking to Gulf Times, DDD marketing and communications manager Zaouk Lara said that the vision behind “Mada & Sada” was to create a platform that reflects the full creative journey rather than focusing only on the final outcome.“‘Mada & Sada’ represents the complete creative process – from ideation, design and production to exhibition,” she said. “It is about bringing together creative expression, hands-on practice and innovation within one unified experience.”Lara added that the initiative aims to encourage creatives to explore new ideas while providing them with opportunities to connect with audiences and showcase their work in meaningful ways.“Creativity does not start when something is displayed; it begins much earlier with a thought, a conversation or a concept,” she explained. “We want to support that entire journey and create an environment where ideas can grow.”The launch event highlighted the importance of public art and its role in shaping communities by bringing creativity into everyday spaces.Guests experienced interactive installations, artistic performances and a preview of selected works from the Public Art Open Call, showcasing emerging ideas from creative talents.Lara noted that the Doha Design District continues to work towards building a stronger creative ecosystem in Qatar by connecting designers, artists, innovators and the wider community.“Our goal is to make creativity accessible and create opportunities for people to engage with art and design in different ways,” she said. “We want visitors not only to see creative work but also to understand the story and effort behind it.”The Public Art Open Call forms a key part of the initiative, giving artists the opportunity to present concepts that contribute to Qatar’s evolving cultural landscape.With “Mada & Sada”, the DDD hopes to strengthen the connection between creators and audiences while positioning design and art as important elements of cultural dialogue and innovation.

The third edition of the Indian Mango Festival at Souq Waqif is showcasing more than 50 varieties while celebrating the deep cultural and economic connections between Qatar and India, ambassador Vipul has said.Speaking to 'Gulf Times', the envoy noted that the festival is more than a celebration of one of India's most cherished fruits; it also highlights the deepening cultural, people-to-people and trade ties between Qatar and India.Vipul, expressing his appreciation to the Qatari authorities for supporting the event, said the festival reflects the close relationship shared by the two countries through food, culture and commerce."This is something that goes to the heart of culture. Food is something that connects people, and food is something that especially connects us Indians and the Qatari population and the general population in the Gulf," he said.The festival features between 40 and 50 varieties of Indian mangoes, along with a range of mango-based products and food offerings from participating restaurants and eateries.Highlighting the similarities between the two cultures, Vipul pointed to shared favourites enjoyed by residents of both countries. "We have many similarities. We have biryani, we have mangoes, we have dates, we have karak chai, we have roti, we have puri – many things which are enjoyed by people here in Qatar," he noted.He described the festival as a platform that brings people together through shared experiences and traditions. "I think this is one such exhibition where people come together, and this is a bonding that takes place over food, over mangoes. Everyone feels happy," he said.Beyond its cultural significance, the ambassador stressed that the event also reflects the strong economic relationship between Qatar and India. "That also connects to the trade relations between India and Qatar. We buy a lot of energy from Qatar and we export a good amount of food products, especially rice, mangoes and many other things," he said.The envoy added that the festival symbolises not only the strategic partnership between the two nations but also the enduring connections between their people. "I feel happy that this is emblematic of that kind of a connect between our two countries – this strategic partnership, but more than that, the people-to-people ties between our two countries."Encouraging residents and visitors to attend, he noted that last year's festival attracted around 150,000 visitors. "They should come because you have a large variety of mangoes. It is a good family outing with mangoes," he said.Open daily from 4pm to 10pm, the festival also features innovative mango-inspired creations, including ice creams, golgappas and other speciality dishes, offering families a vibrant celebration of culture, flavour and friendship between Qatar and India.

The Al Jasra Cultural Salon, part of the Al Jasra Cultural and Social Club affiliated to the Ministry of Culture, will host a lecture on “Digital Transformation in Qatar: Opportunities and Challenges” at 7pm Saturday (June 20) at the club's headquarters in Souq Waqif.The lecture will feature a select group of experts in digital transformation and technology.Abdullah al-Salhout and Sarah Hassan Abdulmalik will review the most prominent features of digital transformation in Qatar, the achievements in this field, the opportunities that digital development offers to various sectors, and the challenges of keeping pace with rapid technological change.The lecture is expected to include an open discussion with the audience on the current state of digital transformation in Qatar, its future prospects, and its role in supporting sustainable development and enhancing service efficiency across various fields.The lecture, to be moderated by writer Hanan Badie, is part of the Al Jasra Cultural Salon's efforts to address contemporary issues affecting society and to enrich cultural and intellectual dialogue on topics related to development and progress.

A joint ministerial delegation from Qatar, the United Kingdom and France visited a number of collective shelters in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, Thursday to assess humanitarian conditions and the needs of displaced communities. The delegation included Her Excellency the Minister of State for International Co-operation of the State of Qatar Dr Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad; Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister of State (International Development and Africa) of the United Kingdom; and Eleonore Caroit, Minister Delegate for Francophonie, International Partnerships and French Nationals Abroad, attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic. During the visit, the ministers received detailed briefings on urgent humanitarian and medical requirements facing people housed in the shelters.

The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’s (QPO) CineMoon Ensemble brought audiences into the colourful world of animation with a concert programme that combined beloved cartoon characters and classical music at the Qatar National Library. Every musical phrase, cue and movement was carefully synchronised with the animated films projected on screen, creating a multisensory experience in which the music and visuals unfolded together. From the mischievous antics of Tom and Jerry to the unmistakable stride of the Pink Panther, audiences witnessed cartoons come to life through live performance, with each note precisely aligned to the action on screen. The concert marked the second edition of CineMoon Ensemble’s animation-focused programme, the first one was during their 10th anniversary three years ago. While the inaugural edition combined Charlie Chaplin clips, films from the black-and-white era and cartoons, and was presented in several countries, including Turkiye and Italy, the latest production was dedicated entirely to animation. “The world has changed, yet the timeless world of animation continues to endure. Animation is not solely for children—it is a meaningful part of who we are, preserving our childhood experiences, memories, and imagination,” Merve Kenet Bulun, founder and artistic director of CineMoon Ensemble, said. “At CineMoon Ensemble, we have always been inspired by the great musicians and artists who brought joy and beauty into the world despite its challenges. Through their creativity, they created moments of wonder, poetry, and inspiration, reminding us that imagination remains one of the most powerful ways to connect with one another,” she added. About the inspiration behind the programme, Bulun said that it “came a long time ago, when I first encountered the work of Emanuele Luzzati. His world of illustration had a kind of simple, almost poor magic—created through colour, imagination, and his unique visual language. I was especially fascinated by the way he translated classical music, particularly Gioachino Rossini, into images. His universe of colours and imagination stayed with me ever since.” The programme featured a selection of classical and popular works paired with animated films, including Gioachino Rossini’s The Thieving Magpie and Cat Duett accompanied by cartoons by renowned Italian artist Emanuele Luzzati; Johann Strauss II’s I Can’t Stop Conducting from Tom and Jerry; Leroy Anderson’s The Waltzing Cat; Louis Jordan’s Is You or Is You Ain’t My Baby; and Henry Mancini’s The Pink Panther. The production was conceived by Bulun and conducted by Giovanni Pasini, with specially created visual content by Suleyman Hakan Bulun. Moreover, it is notable that there’s a good dynamic between the musicians and the audience during the Wednesday concert, Bulun said “what makes this experience so special is the sincere and interactive atmosphere it creates, allowing the audience to feel closer and truly connected with us.” Adding to the atmosphere, the performance extended beyond the stage. During the concert, the Pink Panther character moved through the audience alongside Maestro Pasini, greeting guests and creating moments of interaction that were well received by children and adults. Bulun noted that presenting the performance at QNL highlighted the programme’s educational dimension. “Libraries are another world of imagination, wisdom, and human history—and for us, the perfect place to connect more closely with our audience. The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra is not only a musical institution; as part of Qatar Foundation, we also carry a responsibility for music education. Science shows that music helps children think more creatively, develop broader perspectives, improve concentration, and become more engaged learners. In this sense, the library is a perfect match for us.” The concert, which was a full house, featured vocalists Anna Dieterich and Maria Klimenko, alongside Matteo Gaspari, who performed as a double bass soloist and vocalist. The ensemble was led by co-founder and concertmaster Lorena Manescu and featured musicians from the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra across strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. Following strong audience demand and a lengthy waiting list, CineMoon Ensemble is considering opportunities to present the production again. The ensemble’s next community engagement performance will take place on June 26 at Mall of Qatar. The free programme will feature well-known music from film and television, audience sing-alongs and performances by additional QPO ensembles, offering a day of music for audiences of all ages.

A Qatari-owned resort is poised to take centre stage in one of the year's most consequential diplomatic moments, as the Burgenstock Resort overlooking Lake Lucerne prepares to host the official signing of a landmark agreement between the United States and Iran.The property, perched in the Swiss Alps at around 500 metres above the lake, is owned by Katara Hospitality, which redeveloped it into one of Europe's most prestigious luxury destinations. Its selection as the signing venue places Qatar's twin contributions — diplomatic mediation and global investment — at the heart of the occasion.Swiss authorities said the resort was chosen after consultations involving the United States and Iran, together with Qatari and Pakistani mediators, with the Swiss government handling security and logistical arrangements. The choice underscores Doha's sustained role in supporting dialogue and mediation on regional and international issues, while showcasing the expanding footprint of Qatari investment abroad.Prized for its privacy, security and scenic setting, Burgenstock is no stranger to high-level diplomacy, having previously hosted the 2002 Sudan ceasefire talks, the 2004 Cyprus reunification negotiations, the 2024 Ukraine peace summit and various Bilderberg Group meetings.Katara Hospitality is a global leader in hotel ownership and management with more than 50 years of experience, and serves as Qatar's leading hospitality institution in support of the country's long-term economic vision. Its diversified portfolio spans four continents, taking in Qatar, Egypt, Morocco, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Singapore, Thailand and the United States. The company owns and operates more than 8,000 rooms across four- and five-star hotels worldwide.

His Excellency Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari met with the President of the Islamic Development Bank Group Dr Mohammed bin Sulaiman Al Jasser on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the Islamic Development Bank Group in Baku, Azerbaijan.The meeting reviewed the relations between the two sides along with prospects for enhancing and developing them in key shared investment and financial sectors, in addition to discussing a number of topics of mutual interest.

His Excellency Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari participated in the roundtable of the Heads of the Arab Coordination Group with the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, held on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the Islamic Development Bank Group in Baku.The roundtable brought together the heads and representatives of Arab and international development finance institutions to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation with the Republic of Azerbaijan across a range of priority development areas.Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in infrastructure and regional connectivity, as well as exploring mechanisms to mobilize private capital and expand co-financing for investments, contributing to sustainable and inclusive development.

His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call Thursday from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah Al Saud.During the call, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them, and the latest regional developments, particularly the agreement reached between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as efforts to enhance security and stability in the region.HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed Qatar's full support for all efforts and good offices aimed at strengthening regional security and stability, and achieving sustainable solutions to outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means, in line with international law and good neighborliness, contributing to new opportunities for cooperation, development, and prosperity, and serving the shared interests of the peoples of the region and the world.

His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call Thursday from Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt, Dr. Badr Abdelatty. During the call, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them, and the latest regional developments, particularly the agreement reached between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as efforts to promote security and stability in the region. HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed Qatar's full support for all efforts and good offices aimed at enhancing regional security and stability, and reaching sustainable solutions to outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means, in line with the principles of international law and good neighborliness, contributing to new prospects for cooperation, development, and prosperity, and serving the common interests of the peoples of the region and the world.

Msheireb Museums hosted the MIKTA Climate Dialogue 2026, in partnership with the Australian Embassy in Qatar, bringing together representatives from government, industry, academia and civil society to explore opportunities for advancing international climate cooperation ahead of COP31.Held at Bin Jelmood House on 17 June, the event convened under the theme "Accelerating Climate Action Through International Partnerships" and highlighted the contributions of MIKTA member countries - Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Türkiye and Australia - to global climate action.Commenting on the event, General Manager of Msheireb Museums Abdulla Al Naama said: "At Msheireb Museums, we believe museums can play a vital role as platforms for dialogue, learning and the exchange of ideas on issues that shape our societies and our future. Hosting the MIKTA Climate Dialogue reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful conversations that connect culture, knowledge and innovation, while bringing together diverse perspectives to address shared global challenges. We are proud to support initiatives that encourage collaboration and inspire collective action towards a more sustainable future."HE Australian Ambassador to Qatar Shane Flanagan said: "As Chair of MIKTA in 2026, Australia is proud to bring together governments, experts, business leaders and young climate advocates to discuss practical solutions to one of the defining challenges of our time. Climate change is a global challenge that requires global cooperation, and partnerships such as MIKTA play an important role in building consensus, sharing expertise and driving collective action.""Australia is committed to practical and ambitious outcomes that advance global climate action. We are also proud to be working alongside Türkiye to deliver COP31 through an innovative partnership that demonstrates a united purpose to tackle the shared global challenge of climate change."The programme featured two panel discussions and a presentation examining key dimensions of climate action. The first panel, Climate Diplomacy and International Cooperation, brought together the Ambassadors of the five MIKTA countries to discuss how diplomacy, multilateral engagement and international partnerships can advance climate ambition and support meaningful outcomes. The discussion was moderated by Neeshad Shafi, Chair of the Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar, whose leadership helped steer a dynamic conversation on the role of governments, youth and civil society in addressing climate challenges.The second panel, Commercial Innovation and Practical Climate Solutions, explored how business, entrepreneurship and technological innovation can contribute to sustainable climate outcomes, with participants examining barriers to implementation, investment requirements and opportunities for scaling climate solutions across the region.The event also featured a presentation on Education and Future Climate Capability by Dr Mira Chitt, Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor in Smart Manufacturing Engineering at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, highlighting the importance of embedding sustainability within education systems and developing the workforce and technical expertise required for the green transition.Through initiatives such as the MIKTA Climate Dialogue, Msheireb Museums continues to advance its mission of creating spaces for dialogue and engagement, connecting local and global perspectives through programmes that address contemporary social, cultural and environmental challenges.Established in 2013, MIKTA is a cross-regional partnership of middle powers committed to supporting the rules-based international order and addressing shared global challenges through practical cooperation and dialogue. The Climate Dialogue provided a platform for participants to exchange perspectives, strengthen partnerships and identify practical pathways for accelerating climate action in the lead-up to COP31, which will be hosted by Türkiye, with Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy serving as the President of Negotiations.

Qatar welcomed the electronic signing by the United States and Iran of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on addressing outstanding issues between them, including the cessation of military operations and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar considered this a renewed affirmation of the two sides' commitment to resolving their differences through negotiation and peaceful means as well as to enhancing prospects for sustainable peace and economic growth at both the regional and international levels. In a statement issued Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated Qatar's full appreciation of the partnership and efforts undertaken by Pakistan and all regional and international parties to de-escalate tensions and bridge the gaps in viewpoints, culminating in the signing of this memorandum. The ministry emphasised that the MoU represents a solid foundation for moving forward with the next phase of talks between the American and Iranian sides, calling upon all parties to maintain a positive spirit, good offices, and joint coordination to ensure comprehensive and sustainable outcomes. The Ministry affirmed Qatar's continued full support for all good offices and endeavours aimed at enhancing regional security and stability, and reaching sustainable solutions to outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means, in accordance with the principles of international law and good neighborliness, and contributing to opening new horizons for cooperation, development and prosperity, and achieving the common interests of the peoples of the region and the world. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Thursday praised Qatar's constructive efforts and participation in facilitating the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran, which he said would enter into force immediately. Sharif confirmed in a statement that the presidents of the United States and Iran had signed the MoU, which was brokered by Pakistan. He noted that its implementation would begin with simultaneous steps, including Iran's immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, in exchange for the United States lifting its naval blockade directly. He added that US President Donald Trump had once again contributed to ending a conflict that could have had serious consequences for the region and beyond. He commended the efforts of the US negotiating team, including Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner. Sharif also praised the roles and contributions of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt in supporting efforts to end the conflict.

His Excellency Minister of Labour Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri met today with Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the State of Qatar Saeed Abdullah Al Qamzi.During the meeting, the two sides reviewed a number of issues of mutual interest related to the labour sector.