Source: Government of Qatar
Avaza, December 10, 2025
The State of Qatar participated today in the International Conference on the Role of Women in Contemporary Society, held in the coastal city of Avaza in Turkmenistan.
The State of Qatar was represented at the conference by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad.
In Qatar’s national address at the conference, the Minister of State for International Cooperation said that empowering women is a fundamental pillar for achieving sustainable development. She added that Qatar has given significant attention to strengthening human capital by ensuring access to education for women and providing them with equal opportunities in various fields.
She noted that the State of Qatar now takes pride in women forming the majority in higher education, with female graduates accounting for around 70% in scientific and technical disciplines. She added that women’s participation in the labor market has reached 63.3%, reflecting their vital role in national economic growth, a participation that increases with experience, rising to 49% among women over the age of 30.
She highlighted that the State of Qatar has worked to promote women’s participation in leadership roles and decision-making institutions, out of recognition of their importance in shaping policies and advancing progress. She pointed to the presence of Qatari women in pioneering positions, including those holding the rank of fighter pilot, women serving in the diplomatic corps, and others working in the Cabinet and the Shura Council.
She stressed that the State of Qatar looks forward to seeing women in conflict zones such as in Sudan, Syria, Palestine, and other countries around the world enjoy the peace they deserve. She added that it is important for everyone to have a positive impact by improving the lives of others, alleviating their suffering, and enabling hope and ambition toward a dignified life and a secure future.
She also indicated that Qatar continues, at the international level, to support women in fragile environments through the Women in Conflict Zones Initiative, which aims to provide educational and economic empowerment opportunities and to strengthen their participation in peacebuilding efforts.
She affirmed that the value of women goes far beyond leadership positions and professional responsibilities; women are mothers who shape generations, sisters who inspire and support, and daughters who bring pride and strength to their families. She emphasized that their role within the family is no less important than their contributions in workplaces.
She said that the State of Qatar is proud of women in all the roles they undertake in society, explaining that Qatari women are not only participating in shaping the present but are innovating and building a bright future for generations to come.
She urged that the world must work together to ensure a future in which every woman can dream, and can achieve what she dreams of.
HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation expressed her pleasure in participating in a conference that brings together distinguished female leaders from around the world. She extended her appreciation and gratitude to HE Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Supporting Children in Need of Guardianship Oguljahan Atabayeva, for the generous hosting, warm welcome, and gracious hospitality in the friendly Republic of Turkmenistan