Category: Qatar

Source: Government of Qatar

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Esteemed Members of the Tipperary Peace Convention,

Distinguished Guests,

It is with deep humility and immense gratitude that I accept the Tipperary International Peace Award, not as a personal honor, but on behalf of the State of Qatar—its people, its principles, and its leadership. It is a recognition of what Qatar represents in the world today: a steady voice for peace, a defender of dialogue, and a nation that does not waver in the face of hardship.

 To stand here in Ireland—a country whose peace was earned through reconciliation and moral courage—is profoundly meaningful. Your journey affirms what we in Qatar have always believed: peace is not given, it is built.

I am reminded of the late John Hume, who said: “The basis of peace and stability, in any society, has to be the fullest respect for the human rights of all its people.”

However, today, I speak to you not about my story, but the story of the proud people of Qatar.

I am often asked, What guides Qatar’s efforts, from Gaza to Afghanistan, from Lebanon to Ukraine, Some have claimed that Qatar does this for its own gain. This cannot be further from the truth.

Our work is not transactional; it is transformational. It is not a tactic; it is a national identity shaped by culture, driven by faith, enshrined in the constitution, and inspired by leadership.

His Highness the Amir is a model of leadership rare in today’s world. He does not simply govern—he feels, putting his heart and soul in every duty, from the needs of his citizens, to regional and international peace. He sees the people of the region, and innocent people around the world, as his own, grieves for every life lost, and envisions peace as his legacy.

Words cannot express my pride in His Highness. I had the honor to serve my country under his leadership for over ten years, and will be honored to do so for as long as I am able to. It is his wisdom, passion, and determination that I personally draw from the inspiration to propel me forward.

This award comes at a moment of great significance.

Just a week ago, our country came under direct missile attack, a direct result of recklessness concerning the peace and stability of our region. But even as our air defences were falling, our diplomats were doing theirs, securing a ceasefire by dawn. Most importantly, dawn broke with no lives lost and no human cost. That realization led to the choice of restraint rather than retaliation. At that difficult moment, while we were discussing with the Emir options of what our next move will be, he decided that as long as thankfully no lives were lost in the attack, none shall be lost. The choice was restraint.
And I must be clear: Qatar chose restraint from a position of strength, not weakness, because we prioritized regional stability and the well-being of all in our region, over rhetoric and pity show of force.

And frankly speaking, we do not want to be among the countries who are in the club preaching something and doing something else. So we are trying to at least practice what we preach.

We have long warned of the dangers of regional spillover and of how the reckless behavior of Israel risked widening the conflict beyond repair. The price of ignoring those warnings is being paid not only in Gaza but across the region.

The ever-expanding conflicts in our world today have put to the test the ideals and principles that are supposed to secure international peace, the blatant violations of international law, and especially international humanitarian law that are ongoing, with very little accountability and complete impunity perpetrated by members of the United Nations are increasing every day. The erosion of trust in the international order and norms. Nowhere is it safe.

Nowhere is that tragedy more visible than in Gaza. The images from there are unbearable. The loss is unspeakable. Yet in the face of devastation, His Highness the Amir has remained unwavering in his commitment to the people of Gaza, whether it be through continuous aid, actively working towards peace, or defending their dignity in the international arena.

In the international arena, not only the people of Gaza, but we remain committed to freeing the remaining Israeli hostages despite the Israeli government’s apathy towards a peaceful outcome. A human life to us is sacred, regardless of political or any other identity.

Their suffering weighs heavily on our conscience and strengthens our resolve.

Even when provoked, even when attacked, we remain committed to peace—not as a slogan, but as a duty. Our armed forces protect our sovereignty with courage. Our diplomats build bridges in silence. And through it all, our people stand united.

As our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Shall I not tell you what is better than the rank of prayer, fasting, and charity? It is reconciling people.”

To the next generation—those watching from afar: do not believe that peace is naïve. It is harder than war. But it is worth every effort. It is stronger than cynicism and louder than violence.

On behalf of the people of Qatar, I thank the Tipperary Peace Convention for this recognition. And on their behalf, I accept it with humility and with renewed commitment—that Qatar will remain a voice of calm, a partner in peace, and a friend to all who believe that dialogue must triumph over destruction.

May we remain faithful to that cause.

Thank you.

Source: Government of Qatar

Seville, July 2, 2025

The State of Qatar has participated in the Eighth Plenary and Closing Sessions of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, held in Seville, Spain.

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, represented the State of Qatar in both sessions.

The conference concluded with the adoption of a comprehensive document affirming that financing for development should not remain synonymous with traditional aid, but rather should transform into a sustainable investment approach that leads to the creation of opportunities and economic growth in developing countries.

The document noted that reforming the global financial system is an urgent necessity, including enhancing the representation of developing countries in international financial institutions, improving borrowing conditions to align with development capabilities, and imposing fair taxes on wealth and environmentally polluting activities.

The document noted that reducing inequality between and within countries can only be achieved through transparent and equitable financing that takes into account the needs of vulnerable and marginalized groups.

In this context, it emphasized that the global debt crisis must not impede development.

Therefore, the document supported innovative mechanisms, including debt-for-development or climate investment swaps, automatic debt service suspension in emergencies and disasters, and the establishment of a global debt registry to enhance transparency and accountability.

It is worth noting that the Doha 2023 Declaration established the framework for the principles of economic justice and support for least developed countries, while the Seville Declaration is expected to operationalize these principles through a multilateral implementation platform based on innovative financing tools and new development alliances.

The Doha 2023 Declaration affirmed the recognition of accumulated challenges and acknowledged that least developed countries are suffering from accumulated crises, including the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, rising debt, lack of financing and investment, and fragile supply chains.

The Doha Declaration also included a comprehensive vision for development through 2031, encompassing a program of six priority tracks: investing in human capital (health, education, and social protection), accelerating digital transformation, addressing climate change and enhancing resilience, supporting integration into the global economy, strengthening governance and institutions, and mobilizing resources and concessional financing.

The Doha 2023 Declaration also called for enhancing access to concessional financing and grants, debt relief or cancellation, increasing the share of least developed countries in global trade, and accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Seville Declaration represents a pivotal link in a series of global initiatives and establishes a new phase of investment- and equity-based development financing, in preparation for the in-depth review of the international community’s commitments to least developed countries, which will be held in Doha next November.

Source: Government of Qatar

Seville, July 01, 2025

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad affirmed the importance of innovative financing and effective partnerships in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Her Excellency emphasised HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani’s directives to make development as an investment in security, stability, and human dignity.

This came in the State of Qatar’s statement delivered by HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation during a high-level event organized by Qatar Fund for Development, titled “Innovative Financing for Sustainable Development: Addressing Gaps and Scaling Solutions” held on the sidelines of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville, Spain.

Her Excellency noted that the State of Qatar hosted the Second International Conference on Financing for Development in 2008, and has since remained an active participant in all international and regional conferences on development financing. This reflects Qatar’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation and contributing to global efforts to implement the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals, HE added.

The State of Qatar continues to implement its sustainable development agenda, “Qatar National Vision 2030,” which has focused since 2008 on human development, social development, economic development, and environmental development, HE said, noting that, in early 2024, Qatar launched the third phase of its National Development Strategy, aimed at advancing the creation of a healthy society, building a diversified and sustainable knowledge-based economy, enhancing environmental sustainability, and strengthening the role of the family as the foundation of society.

Her Excellency underlined that, given today’s global challenges, there is a pressing need to reinforce multilateral action and international cooperation, in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, while working to maintain international peace and security. HE also underscored the importance of reforming international financial structures, harnessing science, technology, and innovation, and prioritizing innovative solutions capable of making rapid and impactful change to help bring efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals back on track, particularly in developing and least developed countries.

An effective role is expected from the United Nations and its specialized agencies in supporting member states’ efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and protect human rights, Her Excellency said, stressing the State of Qatar’s support for the UN Secretary-General’s reform initiative (UN80 Initiative).

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation expressed the State of Qatar’s pride in its productive international and regional partnerships, including its long-standing and multifaceted cooperation with the United Nations, aimed at advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in developing and least developed countries.

Source: Government of Qatar

 

Mr. Robert Groves, Interim President of Georgetown University

Mr. Safwan Masri, Dean of Georgetown University in Qatar

Graduates,

Distinguished Guests,

May the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you,

 

It is my pleasure to join you this evening for an occasion that embodies what we firmly believe in the State of Qatar: that rigorous education serves as the cornerstone for preparing individuals capable of actively contributing to global stability and development. This gathering is not merely an academic celebration, but also a reflection of our national vision to invest in human capital, considering it the highest value and most precious resource.

This meaning gains further depth as we celebrate today the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Georgetown University in Qatar, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the founding of Qatar Foundation, serving as a living testament to the steadfast belief that investing in human capital is the pathway to building stable and productive societies, and that shaping the future begins within the university campus and extends to working hours and decision-making processes.

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Our region and the world today are facing unprecedented levels of challenges, ranging from armed conflicts to food crises, climate issues, and geopolitical tensions. In this context, the State of Qatar has remained a reliable partner in efforts to promote security and stability, while maintaining a balance between mediation diplomacy and long-term developmental policies.

In every step we take, we draw inspiration from the vision of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, which places both education and empowerment at the core of the nation’s development agenda, recognizing their pivotal role in fostering security, stability, and driving growth. Guided by this belief, the government of Qatar treats higher education as a strategic choice to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030, and to build a diverse and sustainable knowledge-based economy. From this perspective, we are committed to establishing qualitative academic partnerships that contribute to graduating distinguished national competencies and enhance Qatar’s position as a leading regional hub in the fields of knowledge and.

We believe that knowledge is a beacon that guides all, but the true difference lies in how that knowledge is harnessed to create meaningful impact. That is why we view qualitative academic partnerships—such as our partnership with Georgetown University—not merely as agreements, but as bridges that connect the present to the future, and the local to the global. They are not just contracts, but a shared commitment to creating a positive impact in the world.

I also commend the Executive Master’s Program in Diplomacy and International Affairs, which has been specifically designed to prepare Qatari diplomatic cadres capable of bridging academic knowledge with practical skills in the field of international politics. It serves as a living example of the integration between national needs and global academic expertise, directly reflecting on the performance of state institutions, both domestically and internationally.

Graduates of both Genders, 

Today, you stand at the threshold of a new phase, one that extends beyond transitioning from lecture halls to professional domains. It requires you to be active contributors in shaping a world that is more equitable, understanding, and interconnected. This academic institution has equipped you with analytical tools, critical thinking methodologies, and the skills to engage in a world characterized by diverse voices and challenges.

Allow me to say—years ago, I stood where you stand today, filled with the same enthusiasm, the same existential questions, and the same boundless ambition. At that time, I believed the path ahead was clear and the facts were immutable. However, over time, I came to realize that life is far more complex than any academic equation, and I learned that adhering to principles does not equate to rigidity, and that striking a balance between aspiration and reality is the key to sustainability.

You may encounter setbacks, moments of doubt, or a feeling that the way ahead is longer than anticipated. Do not fear such moments; as it is through them that vision is refined, character is shaped, and the leader is distinguished from the ordinary ones.

I urge you today to hold the fear of God in your conscience and let your guiding principle be the service of the nation and its people. Maintain your faith in yourselves, do not relinquish your passion, and do not allow pressures to extinguish the spirit of hope within you. You are the generation upon which we rely to craft new visions and create meaningful impact. Remember that the nation and its leadership stand behind you with confidence, and that you are not merely heading towards jobs, but towards positions where decisions are made and bridges are built.

In an era marked by accelerating transformations and deepening crises, from the tragedy in Gaza to regional tensions, Qatar reaffirms its unwavering commitment to mediation and diplomacy as a means to safeguard civilians and advance political solutions. It has proven that dialogue is an effective alternative to conflict, that credibility is built through consistent action, and that you are now part of this trajectory—a generation that believes in knowledge and works towards responsible change.

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

We take pride today in having graduates from more than forty nationalities, embodying our commitment to cross-cultural education and creating an inclusive academic environment. We also celebrate the milestone of reaching one thousand (1,000) university graduates in Qatar, an achievement that reflects a qualitative accumulation in building human capital, which we consider a developmental priority. We call for investing this capital in initiatives that serve our national priorities and enhance our responsible engagement with the world.

In conclusion, I extend my congratulations to you and your families on this achievement that we commemorate today, not merely as an academic success, but as a testament to your readiness to contribute to shaping the future. 

You do not represent individual accomplishments; rather, you are part of a larger national project that believes in the principle that human capital is the most significant investment, and that building the future begins with qualified minds and conscientious hearts. 

Maintain your passion for knowledge and your willingness to shoulder responsibility.

May God bless you and guide your steps.

May the Peace, Mercy, and blessings of God be upon you,

Source: Government of Qatar

Source: Government of Qatar

Source: Government of Qatar

Seville, July 02, 2025

The State of Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to fostering partnerships and mobilizing financing for inclusive development, expressing pride in hosting the Second Global Summit on Social Development this coming November. 

The summit aims to enhance global dialogue and action toward inclusive social development and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This message was delivered by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad on financing inclusive and sustainable development. The session was co-organized by the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Spain in cooperation with the International Labour Organization (ILO), as part of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville.

HE the minister emphasized that achieving the SDGs requires effective international cooperation, especially to support vulnerable populations affected by poverty, conflict, and climate change. Her Excellency stressed the urgent need for strong partnerships and sustained investment in education, healthcare, and social protection. She added that a real commitment is needed to leaving no one behind, with special attention to women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

Her Excellency underscored that the State of Qatar continues to pursue its Vision 2030 by building a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, social justice, and inclusion. She highlighted that sustainable development indicators are being integrated into all national policies, with a strong emphasis on the family and expanding access to quality education and healthcare.

At the international level, HE the minister reiterated the State of Qatar’s commitment to working closely with UN agencies, particularly the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and to investing in development acceleration labs that support local innovation in over 115 countries. She also noted the State of Qatar’s role in supporting education in emergencies, including a new partnership with the World Bank that converts debt relief into social investment.

Commenting on the broader global agenda, Her Excellency said that the State of Qatar views the Seville Commitment as a vital stepping stone to the upcoming Doha Summit. She called for joint efforts to reform global financing mechanisms and to strengthen collaboration with international financial institutions like the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and development banks. Her Excellency also called for ensuring that human rights remain at the heart of all development efforts, adding that the State of Qatar looks forward to having everyone work together, in a spirit of partnership and innovation, to develop real solutions that reach those most in need. 

Source: Government of Qatar

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, July 1, 2025

The State of Qatar has expressed confidence that the Political Declaration of the Second World Summit for Social Development, which Doha will host next November, will provide impetus to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and will serve as an ambitious document with a social development-centered approach.

This came in a statement delivered by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, via videoconference, before the high-level Arab regional meeting to prepare for the Second World Summit for Social Development.

Her Excellency explained that Qatar’s hosting of the Second World Summit for Social Development underscores the importance it attaches to promoting comprehensive and sustainable social development, supporting international efforts to eradicate poverty, promote productive employment, and achieve social inclusion, thus moving forward with a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

Her Excellency said that Doha has the ability to capitalize on the unique opportunity offered by the Second World Summit for Social Development to affirm political will, consolidate efforts, and announce global commitments and partnerships, contributing to the abundant opportunities available to achieve tangible progress in the field of social development in a sustainable and comprehensive manner.

The exceptional circumstances and challenges facing the world today, and their impact on many countries, including our Arab countries, require the intensification and acceleration of our collective efforts, which are urgently needed, Her Excellency added . 

She emphasized that Qatar looks forward to this summit being an opportunity to accelerate and stimulate transformational actions, achieve progress in the 2030 Agenda, and recommit to the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development.

Her Excellency noted that world leaders will gather in Doha for the Second World Summit for Social Development fully aware of the major challenges facing them, including the protracted conflicts raging in various regions of the world. 

In this context, she highlighted the Gaza Strip as a clear example, noting that the ongoing blatant Israeli aggression on the Strip continues to cause immense human suffering and result in serious violations of humanitarian values ​​and international standards.

Her Excellency the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations affirmed that the valuable contributions of Arab countries to the negotiations and preparatory process leading up to the Summit will undoubtedly have a positive and significant impact on the success of the Summit and on advancing social policies that leave no one behind and promote resilient and just societies.

Her Excellency expressed Qatar’s aspiration to welcome its guests to Doha next November, affirming that it will spare no effort to ensure a fruitful and successful conference and achieve tangible results that contribute to realizing our shared vision for a better world.

Source: Government of Qatar