Doha Forum 'a leading platform for addressing global challenges'

General Manager of Doha Forum Maha al-Kuwari emphasized the significance of the 22nd edition of the forum, set to launch tomorrow, as a leading platform for addressing major global challenges a midst the escalation of conflicts and the accelerating pace of violence in today's world.

In an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), al-Kuwari said that the two-day forum, held under the theme 'The Innovation Imperative', represents a pivotal opportunity for policymakers, thought leaders and innovators to meet, exchange ideas, and explore avenues for impactful and effective solutions.

She noted that this major global event highlights the importance of collaboration as a driving force for achieving mutual understanding and addressing global challenges. Al-Kuwari expressed her pride in the prominent international standing that the Doha Forum has achieved, emphasizing its influential role in shaping policies and decision-making among the participating countries.

This year's edition will see the participation of over 4,500 participants from more than 150 countries, with more than 300 speakers, including 7 heads of state, 7 heads of government and 15 foreign ministers. The forum will also be attended by senior officials and leaders of regional, international and UN organizations.

The forum will offer in-depth insights on various global issues through more than 80 discussion sessions, which will enhance the forum's outcomes and contribute to providing practical results that reflect the drive for impactful and constructive action worldwide, she noted. Al-Kuwari said that this edition of the forum aims to provide innovative solutions that address current challenges and contribute to making a tangible positive impact.

She praised the prominent role of the Doha Forum as a platform bringing world leaders together to work toward a more sustainable and peaceful future. She emphasized that the 22nd edition of the forum stands out this year by focusing on a number of important topics and urgent issues to stimulate and enhance discussions and produce the best solutions to assist decision-makers.

The forum's agenda has been carefully prepared to cover a wide range of issues reflecting the scale and diversity of global challenges, including geopolitical issues, emerging technologies, global security, economic development and cultural diplomacy, she noted. She also stressed the importance of involving all parties in the discussions, despite the challenges, highlighting the forum's ability to bring together decision-makers and policymakers in fruitful discussions that contribute to strengthening the forums agenda and outcomes.

Al-Kuwari spoke about the forum's status as a prominent global event since its launch in 2000, highlighting the partnerships the forum has established with leading research centers and think tanks worldwide, creating a conducive environment for constructive dialogue and diplomatic collaboration.

She expressed pride in the forum's development, thanks to the significant support provided by the State of Qatar, emphasizing that the modern facilities and innovative design of the forum's events enhance seamless interaction and create an ideal environment for impactful discussions.

She pointed out that the Doha Forum has become an indispensable platform for global leaders, where they gather to discuss shared challenges and work on crafting innovative solutions that meet the needs of a changing world.

In her interview with QNA, General Manager of Doha Forum Maha al-Kuwari explained that this year's theme 'The Innovation Imperative' reflects the importance of developing innovative solutions that address the complexities of the digital age, adding that innovation is essential for sustainability and development across various fields, from the economy and international relations to conflict resolution and humanitarian aid, as well as other pressing issues such as security, climate, and the global order itself. She also emphasized the importance of innovation in modern life and moving beyond traditional solutions to address current and urgent challenges.

Regarding the accompanying events of the Forum, al-Kuwari revealed that the International Media Office is organizing, for the first time, a related exhibition titled 'Pathway to Peace', which showcases Qatar's efforts in mediation and international peacebuilding, offering a deeper understanding of the concept of mediation. It also highlights the impact of Qatar's role in promoting dialogue between conflicting parties, underscoring the priority of the Doha Forum and the State of Qatar in enhancing the role of dialogue and bringing different perspectives together, she said.

Al-Kuwari added that the Doha Forum is keen to hold its youth version in collaboration with the QatarDebate Centre, member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development. This year, the youth event took place on Wednesday and Thursday to facilitate the youth's voice in the main Forum, she explained, stressing that the youth version serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue, allowing young voices to inspire and interact with others, enhancing the understanding of diverse viewpoints through workshops and interactive discussions.

Al-Kuwari also announced the launch of a mobile application that allows participants to communicate and arrange meetings easily. She emphasized that the Forum this year will witness the announcement of new partnerships and initiatives aimed at enhancing international co-operation.

Regarding challenges, al-Kuwari explained that the escalation of conflicts and the growing divisions between countries, along with gathering leaders and decision-makers with differing views, were among the main obstacles. However, she confirmed that the conscious efforts and belief of participants in the necessity of dialogue and mutual understanding contributed to overcoming these difficulties.

Al-Kuwari stated that the growing popularity of the Doha Forum and the increasing attention it has received this year have strengthened the resolve to ensure that future iterations of the Forum continue to accommodate this growth, while meeting the diverse needs of our expanding international community.

She affirmed that international co-operation, dialogue, and mutual understanding are vital for addressing global challenges and achieving sustainable development. She explained that the Doha Forum dedicates its efforts to enhancing mutual respect for diverse viewpoints, aiming to inspire responsible and inclusive policies, noting that by embracing innovation, they aim to address urgent challenges in areas such as global security, conflict prevention, economic development, and technological advancement.

Al-Kuwari confirmed that the Forum's goal for 2024 is to develop new frameworks and adopt an experimental approach to address global issues, with a focus on promoting positive change and effective cooperation on a global scale to achieve a better future for all of humanity.