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Qatar and Denmark can broaden their healthcare partnership beyond pharmaceuticals, creating new opportunities in public health education and lifestyle initiatives following the recent launch of the obesity drug Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) in Doha, Danish ambassador Anders Bjørn Hansen said.Speaking to Gulf Times, Hansen – who serves as ambassador to both Qatar and the UAE – described the introduction of Wegovy by Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk as a strong reflection of the deepening healthcare diplomacy between the two nations.“Foremost, I think this is a very good testament to the close co-operation between our two countries and a very successful co-operation also involving Novo Nordisk,” he said.Developed by Novo Nordisk, Wegovy is a treatment for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and above, designed to address obesity — a global public health challenge that increasingly affects populations both in Qatar and worldwide.It is learnt that the global obesity epidemic now affects approximately 1bn people, with the crisis escalating rapidly in the Gulf region, which reports some of the highest rates globally.Hansen stressed that the launch of Wegovy not only reflects Denmark’s expertise in life sciences but also underlines the nation’s values of balancing scientific innovation, patient care, and ethical responsibility.“It shows our very strong commitment to the life science area, where Novo Nordisk is one of our champion companies. It’s extremely important that the products also benefit people globally, so it’s a very positive event to see the launch of this particular product in Qatar,” he said.The ambassador underscored the potential for Qatar and Denmark to work together on holistic health initiatives that extend beyond pharmaceutical distribution.“The question is really spot on in terms of looking at this as a holistic approach. There is much that both countries can do to promote a healthy lifestyle — to make sure young children have active life activities in school, for example.“This is very important for all of us, and it is also something Denmark focuses on in both our healthcare and educational systems,” he added.

Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Autism-Friendly Hospital initiative at Sidra Medicine is reshaping autism care through tailored pathways, trained staff, and parental support, advancing a wider 2025–2035 national strategy for earlier diagnosis and compassionate healthcare.According to QF’s 'Building an Autism-Friendly Nation in Qatar' progress report (2016-2024), the programme is based on proven international best practices adapted to the Qatari context, aiming to make every hospital visit as comfortable as possible.Launched in 2023 as a pilot model, the report noted that the initiative directly addresses the significant stress hospital appointments can cause for children with autism and their families.The comprehensive, three-step process begins with Personalised Childcare, according to the report. Upon a child’s registration in Sidra Medicine’s online system, an alert triggers a specific care pathway.Nurses then proactively contact parents to complete an Autism Support Checklist, available in Arabic and English, detailing the child’s sensory and communication needs, preferences, and behavioural patterns.This vital information is saved and updated, while every ward is equipped with devices and sensory toys to ease discomfort. Further accommodations for parents include minimised waiting times and dedicated parking spots.A cornerstone of the initiative is Specialised Staff Training where Sidra Medicine promotes an inclusive, respectful attitude towards individuals with autism and stresses dignity and patient-centered care.The report noted that all health personnel undergo training via a culturally sensitive e-learning module, providing basic education about autism, its varied manifestations, and effective accommodation strategies. This might involve using sensory or communication devices, visual aids, or allowing more time for children to process information and prepare for procedures.The third pillar, Parent Training, empowers families by equipping them with essential knowledge about autism. This can be achieved through small workshops and the dissemination of printed or digital resources during hospital visits.According to the report, Sidra Medicine is aiming to reduce the average age of diagnosis for children with autism, ensuring they receive the earliest possible support. This objective, it added, is a key component of QF’s broader Autism Strategy for 2025-2035, highlighting a long-term commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism and their families across the nation.

Poland is eyeing stronger agri-food exports to Qatar and the wider region, capitalising on initiatives such as the recent “Taste of Poland” event at LuLu Pearl Qatar to showcase its diverse and high-quality offerings, according to Polish head of Mission in Doha, Tomasz Sadzinski.Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, the envoy said that while LuLu Group remains a key partner in bringing Polish foodstuffs to Qatar, the embassy is actively engaging with other stakeholders to broaden market access for Polish products — ranging from gourmet food to beauty items, among others.“Currently, LuLu is our focus because they initiated this idea a number of years ago, but obviously we’re working with all our partners,” Sadzinski said, pointing to the recent celebration of Polish National Day on May 6 at the Sheraton Grand Doha, where several Qatari brands that import Polish goods were invited as partners.“We want to get everyone on board, everyone bringing all sorts of products from Poland to Qatar, and we’re looking for opportunities to support one another,” he said.While the presence of Polish cuisine in Qatar remains modest, anchored by the sole Polka Restaurant, Sadzinski expressed optimism that Polish culinary offerings will continue to grow in visibility.“Restaurant business is challenging, of course, but initiatives like Taste of Poland will promote our food more. Many chefs here already know how to prepare dishes like pierogi or different Polish meat products,” he noted, as he encouraged Qatar’s residents to “discover Poland, visit Poland, enjoy Poland, and also ‘taste’ Poland”.On the regional scale, Sadzinski said the Polish embassy sees strong potential in Qatar’s market, where consumers with significant purchasing power are increasingly interested in exploring new products. Its strategy aims to cater not only to Qatari nationals but also to the country’s diverse expatriate population.The envoy also noted that Poland, with its deep agricultural traditions and vast green fields, has seen record-breaking agri-food exports recently, exceeding €53billion in 2023. Increasingly, he said these exports are reaching markets outside the European Union.According to Sadzinski, the LuLu Group’s regional footprint offers added value by positioning Polish products not only for Qatari consumers but also for neighbouring Gulf countries.“The very good thing about what LuLu is doing is that it’s not looking solely at the Qatari market but also has a regional perspective. That is the added value of this co-operation," Sadzinski said.

Poland aims to significantly boost and diversify its QR4.2bn trade with Qatar, targeting growth beyond its nearly QR800mn in 2024 exports with high-end products and advanced technology, Polish head of mission Tomasz Sadzinski has said.“I think we’re doing a great job, but the potential is obviously significantly larger,” he told the Gulf Times on the sidelines of the recently held National Flag Day of Poland and the Day of the Polish Diaspora.While Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) currently represents Qatar’s primary export to Poland, Sadzinski expressed optimism about future Qatari offerings. He sees that Qatar’s aim to diversify its exports away from hydrocarbons will result in a meaningful range of Qatari products becoming available for export to Poland.However, the envoy stressed that his priority remains promoting Polish products and solutions for development and use within Qatar, highlighting key areas such as highly developed machinery, fashion, high-end services for banking and other sectors, and tech services.Sadzinski noted Poland’s current export portfolio to Qatar is already varied: “It’s quite diversified because a meaningful part, for instance, is foodstuffs, but we also have machinery, aviation, and high-end industries. So it’s a fairly balanced foundation for co-operation, and I think it’s a very good base to build upon.”Beyond the economic sphere, he said, Poland is actively working to enhance cultural and artistic exchanges with Qatar, initiating these efforts by planning a number of events in Qatar this year. While acknowledging that a full “Year of Culture” requires extensive planning and might be premature, he said it is an idea the embassy is keen to explore, particularly inspired by Qatar’s current cultural year with Latin American countries, which he described as impressive.The envoy cited a specific cultural ambition for the near future: an exhibition designed to resonate deeply with Qatari heritage. “My ambition is also to organise a number of exhibitions with our Qatari friends, [one] that would highlight the Polish heritage and success story in terms of breeding pure-blood Arabian horses,” he said.“I think it’s a topic very close to the Qatari heart, and we want to support this as strongly as possible,” he added.Sadzinski stressed that for the embassy, occasions like the National Flag Day serve a dual role: while celebrating history, they are also crucial for highlighting Poland’s modern identity, innovation, arts, and its ambitions on the global stage.These events, he pointed out, underline the presence of Polish people and professionals in Qatar, showcasing their affection for the country and their significant contributions to its development. He added that their high qualifications in innovative sectors demonstrate that Poland is, in a sense, an integral part of the development currently taking place in Qatar.The envoy noted that a cornerstone of this effort to showcase innovation is the planned continuation of the annual Poland-Qatar technology forum. He announced that this will happen at the end of the year, confirming that discussions are already underway with key partners in Doha. These include Invest Qatar, Qatar Financial Centre, Qatar Science and Technology Park, Qatar Development Bank, and Qatar Free Zones Authority.According to Sadzinski, their intention is to ensure broad participation to effectively showcase Qatar’s development, progress, and locally developed solutions, while also facilitating meaningful discussions with Polish counterparts that could potentially lead to business co-operation.

As Qatar’s cultural landscape undergoes rapid expansion, a new exhibition by renowned Italian artist Quayola at M7 offers a timely exploration of how generative art and artificial intelligence (AI) can shape evolving dialogues between Europe and the Gulf region.'Nuovo Paesaggio (New Landscape)', presented by the Italian embassy in Doha in collaboration with Fondazione AGO – Modena Fabbriche Culturali and supported by the Directorate-General for Contemporary Creativity of the Italian Ministry of Culture, is on view at M7 (first floor) until July 19.“Certainly in the region, there is really a cultural explosion. There are a lot of very interesting things happening, and I find my work also starting to circulate more here—that’s something that makes me very happy,” Quayola told 'Gulf Times'.The artist, renowned for his innovative use of technology to reinterpret classical art and natural forms, sees the flourishing cultural landscape in the Gulf as fertile ground for such exchanges. “Having this cultural exchange, and this sort of point of view that meets through art, is always a nice thing to witness and to be part of,” he said.However, Quayola underlined the essential human element in his creations, noting that while technology is fascinating and full of potential, it also carries risks that require occasional restraint. For him, the human component is fundamental, and the crucial question is not what technology is used, but how it is applied.“As technology becomes more advanced and standardised, the artist’s role is to innovate how it is used... What you see here in this room is the result of observations made with a very specific technology – one that is widely used in a very different context.“But it is not the technology itself that produces what you see here; it is the human using that technology, sometimes subverting it in unusual ways. What makes this artwork unique is the person, not the technology. And I think how we use technology is a crucial question for the future,” Quayola noted.Having exhibited globally, Quayola finds the diverse interpretations of his work enriching. He shared that the opportunity to display his art around the world, including in the Gulf, is deeply rewarding. He explained that his work explores universal themes, such as humanity’s relationship with nature and the ways people observe the world, and he considers art to be a form of universal language. While interpretations may vary, he noted, the fundamental core of what his artworks offer remains consistent.Quayola views his art as “a celebration of nature, and also a celebration of human creativity – in a form where machines are there to enhance our own creativity.”

Qatar’s cutting-edge healthcare infrastructure, further enhanced by innovative treatments and strong international collaborations, positions the country as a rising destination for medical tourism in the region, according to Aamal Company CEO Rashid bin Ali al-Mansoori.Speaking to 'Gulf Times', al-Mansoori expressed confidence in Qatar’s capabilities, highlighting its status as having one of the world’s best healthcare systems and the presence of “very advanced hospitals”. He also stressed that Hamad Hospital stands out in the region.“Healthcare is an important pillar in Qatar’s vision 2030, so we need to be supporting this vision by bringing the best to the Qatar market,” he said, citing the recent introduction of innovative treatments, such as the recently launched obesity drug Wegovy. This, he pointed out, forms part of Aamal’s aim of providing the best in healthcare for the people of Qatar.“We look at healthcare not only as a trading or for making profit but it is the service and social responsibility of Aamal for its community,” al-Mansoori said. He added that partnerships with international pharmaceutical leaders such as Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, are crucial not just for accessing new medicines but also for knowledge transfer.Al-Mansoori said that Aamal’s commitment extends beyond providing medication, but to include public health awareness and prevention. He said the company actively works to educate its staff and the wider community about these diseases, viewing such efforts as fundamental, pre-medical steps that underline the importance of lifestyle and dietary choices.He said the noticeable increase in general tourism, demonstrated by reports of a crowded airport, also shows that Qatar’s tourism authorities are successfully working on all fronts to attract more visitors and diversify the nation’s economy.

Qatar’s cutting-edge healthcare infrastructure, further enhanced by innovative treatments and strong international collaborations, positions the country as a rising destination for medical tourism in the region, according to Aamal Company CEO Rashid bin Ali al-Mansoori.Speaking to Gulf Times, al-Mansoori expressed confidence in Qatar’s capabilities, highlighting its status as having one of the world’s best healthcare systems and the presence of “very advanced hospitals”. He also stressed that Hamad Hospital stands out in the region.“Healthcare is an important pillar in Qatar’s vision 2030, so we need to be supporting this vision by bringing the best to the Qatar market,” he said, citing the recent introduction of innovative treatments, such as the recently launched obesity drug Wegovy. This, he pointed out, forms part of Aamal’s aim of providing the best in healthcare for the people of Qatar.“We look at healthcare not only as a trading or for making profit but it is the service and social responsibility of Aamal for its community,” al-Mansoori said. He added that partnerships with international pharmaceutical leaders such as Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, are crucial not just for accessing new medicines but also for knowledge transfer.Wegovy’s launch, a weight management therapy already attracting global attention, adds to the portfolio of advanced healthcare offerings available in Qatar, it is learnt.Al-Mansoori said that Aamal’s commitment extends beyond providing medication, but to include public health awareness and prevention. He said the company actively works to educate its staff and the wider community about these diseases, viewing such efforts as fundamental, pre-medical steps that underline the importance of lifestyle and dietary choices.He said the noticeable increase in general tourism, demonstrated by reports of a crowded airport, also shows that Qatar’s tourism authorities are successfully working on all fronts to attract more visitors and diversify the nation’s economy.

Tech-driven autism care – from building smart playgrounds and classrooms – is at the core of Qatar Foundation (QF)’s 10-year autism strategy aimed at transforming diagnosis, care, and family support, according to QF’s Dr Hilal Lashuel.“We are bringing all the technologies that allow us to capture these different features of the disease (autism) at a level that we can capture the unique features of everyone,” Dr Lashuel, the Research, Development and Innovation advisor to the chairperson of QF, told Gulf Times.He said this includes integrating a range of technologies, from eye-tracking and voice analysis to advanced sensors that monitor interactions with robots and the surrounding environment.Dr Lashuel, also QF’s Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) executive director, pointed out that this approach represents a significant departure from traditional clinical settings as QF envisions a future where diagnostic data is gathered in more natural environments, such as “smart playgrounds” equipped with sensing technologies.“Instead of taking a person to a clinic, our vision is to bring a child to a playground but one that is connected with all the sensing technologies around them, and then we capture that data,” he said.Dr Lashuel added that the huge amount of data collected in these environments will be analysed using artificial intelligence (AI), enabling earlier and more accurate diagnoses.Beyond diagnosis, he said a key focus of the strategy is on empowering parents, who often find it challenging to monitor their child’s progress and make informed decisions about their care.Dr Lashuel noted that many parents feel lost between infrequent doctor visits, unsure if their child is improving or not.To address this, he said QF is developing technologies that can be used at home, allowing parents to track their child’s responses to interventions and monitor their overall progress.“If you have a technology that allows you to understand the state of your child, how is he responding, how is he improving, is he getting worse, that is one of the unique things we are doing,” he said.According to Dr Lashuel, the Autism Strategy 2025-2035 also aims to improve access to information and support for parents by creating a “community hub”.This, he said, serves as an integrated pipeline, guiding parents through the entire process of diagnosis, care, and support. Parents will have access to relevant data, resources, and contact information, all facilitated through AI-powered technology.Recognising the challenges of providing personalised care at scale, he said QF is also exploring how technology can support educators in the classroom. He cited Autism Sensing Centre of Excellence’s pilot projects that include the development of a connected classroom, equipped with technologies to assist with learning.Dr Lashuel said the goal is to provide teachers with AI-driven insights that can help them tailor their approach to each student’s individual needs. “What we want eventually is to be able for the teacher to sit and do their job. Technology captures the information, and AI translates this information to individual insight.”

Qatar’s maritime industry received a huge boost Monday with the launch of the first-ever Mina Pre-Owned Boat Show at Old Doha Port’s Mina Corniche.The event will run until tomorrow (May 7), bringing together marine enthusiasts, first-time buyers, and seasoned boaters eager to explore a curated selection of second-hand vessels. It is open daily from 5pm to 9pm.According to the organisers, this boat show offers boat owners a unique opportunity to display their vessels, ranging from jet skis and fishing boats to yachts, superyachts, and traditional dhows, for free. Public entry is also free, making it accessible to a wide audience.“We at Old Doha Port have set objectives and goals that we want to achieve, one of which is definitely enhancing the maritime experience locally, regionally and then globally.“This pre-owned boat show is considered as the first-of-its-kind in Qatar, and the aim is to provide a safe platform for sellers and buyers, whether individuals or companies,” Old Doha Port CEO, engineer Mohammed Abdullah al-Mulla, told reporters.He noted that the event facilitates smoother transactions by providing dedicated spaces for inspection companies and service providers. This, he pointed out, allows potential buyers to obtain initial inspection reports on the vessels, aiding in informed decision-making.He added that stringent criteria are in place to ensure the quality of boats offered, including a requirement of at least one year of valid inspection reports and a registration year of 2007 or beyond. More than 40 marine vessels are participating in this maiden edition, highlighting the strong momentum in Qatar’s pre-owned boat market.The show has transformed the Mina Corniche into a vibrant open-air marketplace, organisers said. It also offers on-site maintenance workshops and inspection services at competitive prices, fostering a supportive environment for both buyers and sellers.Al-Mulla said this latest edition of the show joins other recent initiatives at Old Doha Port, including the first Qatar Boat Show and a fishing exhibition.He said the combination of events caters to local, regional, and international markets, and provides the right infrastructure for yacht owners to safely and easily berth their vessels in Qatar.In addition to the diverse range of boats on display, organisers noted that visitors can also enjoy a unique hospitality experience in a welcoming maritime atmosphere, overlooking Doha’s skyline and the West Bay towers. It also features music and various activities.Organisers stressed that this boat show is poised to become a key event in Qatar’s maritime calendar, underscoring Old Doha Port's commitment to nurturing and strengthening the local industry.

Qatar and France have forged a deeply-rooted strategic partnership in the past four years with increased co-operation across diplomatic, defence, economic, and cultural sectors, in addition to high-level visits, the outgoing French ambassador Jean-Baptiste Faivre said.“I think the best reflection of the renewed strength of the strategic partnership between France and Qatar was His Highness’ State visit to France in February 2024. It was the first State visit in 15 years. It showed how much France and Qatar have built strong co-operation in every field,” he told reporters at a press briefing on Sunday at his residence in Doha.Faivre is set to leave Doha Monday, marking the end of a four-year tenure that witnessed a significant deepening of the strategic partnership between the two countries. He said he is expected to continue his diplomatic career with a posting within the region.On the diplomatic front, the envoy underlined the high level of confidence that has been built, enabling constant co-ordination on pressing global issues. “Our co-ordination has been constant, at many levels, on many issues, on particular Gaza and Lebanon,” he said, noting the seven visits from French foreign ministers and the three strategic dialogues, including one scheduled later this month in Paris.The envoy pointed out that these dialogues involve key figures like HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, and his French counterpart, fostering critical discussions and collaborative problem-solving.The establishment of the strategic dialogue mechanism was a key accomplishment of Faivre’s tenure, representing the pinnacle of the mutual trust that has positioned Qatar and France as steadfast partners.“It is the pinnacle as well as the illustration of the highest level of confidence our countries have reached, which make them all-time and all-weather partners now,” he said.Faivre noted that the robust diplomatic ties were further demonstrated by numerous high-level visits. President Macron visited Doha four times during the envoy’s term, accompanied by frequent visits from the French ministers of foreign affairs and defence, enabling consistent consultation on critical geopolitical issues such as Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Afghanistan.“I am very glad that we’ve created long-term partnerships in humanitarian action and development aid. Many thanks to our partners in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Qatar Fund for Development, and all other agencies,” he said.In the area of defence, Faivre stressed that co-operation has reached an unprecedented level with the implementation of operational partnership and training activities. This, he said, was highlighted by the bilateral joint exercise “Al Koot” in Qatar in 2024, involving 450 French soldiers.Reciprocal training activities, such as the pilot training programme at the Qatar Air Academy for four French pilot officers, showed the strong ties between the armed forces, the envoy said. He noted that Qatar’s confidence in French defence industries, as demonstrated by ongoing acquisition projects, promises to shape defence relations for years to come.Faivre said security co-operation between France and Qatar, a longstanding tradition, was underscored by the joint efforts for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022 and the upcoming Olympics in Paris in 2024.He lauded Qatar’s emergence as a prominent sports nation, recalling the numerous sporting events he attended in Doha. He also expressed personal support for the Duhail football team.Faivre highlighted the enhanced ambition in the economic and finance sectors, building upon already strong ties in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and digital technology.He noted the significant progress in cultural relations, citing the recent visit of French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati and the signing of six framework agreements between leading cultural institutions.In the field of higher education, Faivre said: “Many efforts have been made to enhance academic co-operation. This has led to numerous agreements signed between French and Qatari institutions. We have successful partnerships between University Paris 1-Panthéon Sorbonne and Lusail University as well as between Sciences Po and Doha institute.“Overall, I leave Qatar with a deep feeling of gratitude and also confidence when I look at what’s next for Qatar and France. Long live our friendship. I want to extend my special and deep thanks to the Qatari authorities – and in particular His Highness the Amir and HE the Prime Minister – for their trust and support of my mission,” Faivre added.

A one-of-its-kind exhibition, 'Nuovo Paesaggio (New Landscape)' by internationally acclaimed Italian artist Quayola was unveiled at a VIP preview on Sunday at M7, offering a fresh exploration of natural landscapes through the lens of advanced technology and computational artistry. The event was attended by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) secretary-general, ambassador Riccardo Guariglia; Italian ambassador to Qatar Paolo Toschi; and MFA’s Political Affairs’ deputy director Maurizio Greganti; National Museum of Qatar director HE Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Hamad al-Thani; and Qatar Museums CEO Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi, among other guests. Speaking to Gulf Times, curator Claudio Composti explained how Quayola bridges the gap between classical and contemporary art. “Quayola’s work is very perfectly matched between classical and very contemporary because what we see here, it looks like a painting in this case for a photography but it is neither painting nor photography...” He pointed out that Quayola’s artistic approach involves directly engaging with tradition and then subverting it through the application of advanced technologies. New Landscape, promoted by the Italian embassy in Doha in collaboration with Fondazione AGO – Modena Fabbriche Culturali and with the support of the Directorate-General for Contemporary Creativity of the Italian Ministry of Culture, will be on view at M7 (first floor) until July 19. The exhibition presents a unique blend of photographic techniques, emerging technologies, and computational strategies, challenging traditional representations of the natural world. It unfolds as an investigation into nature, observed and reinterpreted by machines, fostering a continuous dialogue between visual tradition and technological innovation. About the tension between man-made algorithms and natural forms, Quayola cited the relationship between his work and nature, saying: “Everything we do is still connected to nature, it is in fact an inspiration that comes from nature. Even this ephemeral digital process is algorithmic techniques. The artist utilises ultra-high-resolution cameras, 3D scanners, and laser sensors—such as Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging, or Lidar – to meticulously observe landscapes and natural phenomena, transforming them into complex digital renderings. In this process, organisers noted that the algorithmic gaze of the machine becomes a co-author, generating visions that reveal elements often invisible to the human eye, effectively introducing a new visual language. New Landscape features two series: Storms and Remains: Vallée de Joux. Storms focuses on the coasts of Cornwall, capturing the chaotic behaviour of waves during storms and transforming atmospheric phenomena into visual matter. Remains, on the other hand, explores the Swiss forests of the Vallée de Joux, offering an immersive journey where vegetation is scanned, interpreted, and rendered as an archetypal and dreamlike landscape. In both series, organisers noted that natural elements such as waves, light, vegetation, and wind are converted into datasets, forming the foundation for an aesthetic construction where algorithmic intervention does not erase reality but redefines it. In a press statement, Toschi, said: “This exhibition gives a new perspective to the dialogue between tradition and innovation on landscape, an artistic subject that both in Italy and in Qatar is at the centre of artistic and cultural experience”.

The skies above Al Bidda Park in Doha were painted with the vibrant white and red of the Polish flag Friday as the embassy of Poland marked its National Flag Day.The highlight of the celebration was a 21m Polish flag, the longest so far in Qatar, hoisted into the air by a large balloon, creating a memorable display for onlookers.The festivities continue Saturday from 10am to 12 noon, coinciding with Poland’s Constitution Day.Speaking to *Gulf Times, Polish head of Mission in Doha Tomasz Sadzinski underlined the significance of the event, saying the dual celebration also honours the Polish diaspora, connecting compatriots both at home and abroad.“Today, we are celebrating both Poland National Flag Day and the Day of the Polish Diaspora,” he said. “We wanted to create something truly memorable and exceptional.”Given the expertise of Polish professionals here, particularly in the aviation sector with drones and balloons, Sadzinski said they decided to hang Poland’s flag from a balloon at Al Bidda Park, making it visible to everyone.He described the flag as a powerful symbol of Polish national pride, acting as a beacon for the Polish community in Qatar and capturing the attention of those passing by.The celebrations, he added, extend Saturday to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the Polish Constitution in 1791.Sadzinski said that this historic document, adopted 234 years ago, holds immense significance as the first constitution in Europe and the second in the world, after the American Constitution.He highlighted the importance of such special celebrations in fostering stronger ties between Poland and Qatar, stressing the collaborative spirit and the support received from Qatari authorities.“We are very grateful for the support from Qatar’s institutions and authorities,” Sadzinski said. “As an embassy, we strive to promote our heritage and culture, sharing it with our Qatari host.”He also noted the reciprocal efforts of Qatar’s ambassador in Warsaw, Saoud bin Abdulla Zaid al-Mahmoud, who actively promotes Qatari culture in Poland, inviting Polish institutions to participate in events like Qatar’s National Sport Day.According to Sadzinski, the Polish embassy in Doha has actively promoted Friday’s event on social media, sharing wishes with the Polish community and encouraging them to join the celebration at Al Bidda Park.He said that such celebrations underscore the strong bond between Qatar and Poland, founded on mutual respect and a shared appreciation for each other’s cultures.

Ebn Sina Medical, a subsidiary of Aamal Company, and Danish healthcare major Novo Nordisk have launched the weight loss prescription medicine Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4mg) in Qatar, marking a medical milestone in the country’s fight against obesity.Wegovy is described as the first and only once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) approved for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents ages 12 years and above.Obesity has emerged as a significant global epidemic, affecting approximately 1bn individuals world-wide. Obesity in the Gulf is rapidly unfolding with the highest rates globally.Addressing a press conference in Doha yesterday, Aamal Company CEO Rashid bin Ali al-Mansoori said: “This achievement reflects Aamal Company’s commitment to bringing the latest innovation to the market whether through our diverse business or in collaboration with global leaders such as Novo Nordisk.Al-Mansoori underlined Aamal Company’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge medical solutions to the Qatari market, aligning with the country’s National Health Strategy and Vision 2030.He also underscored the collaborative nature of this initiative, stressing the role of partnerships in delivering world-class healthcare to Qatar.In a press statement, Ebn Sina Medical noted that 41% of adults in Qatar are obese, a figure that rises to 46% among women. The consequences of this widespread obesity are far-reaching, contributing significantly to the prevalence of chronic conditions such as pre-diabetes, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).According to Ebn Sina Medical, the active ingredient in Wegovy, Semaglutide 2.4mg, functions by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone, thus reducing hunger and increasing the feeling of fullness, which can lead to decreased calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.It is indicated for use as an aide to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight who also have at least one weight-related comorbidity. Clinical research has shown promising results, with Wegovy, when combined with lifestyle modifications, leading to an average of 17% weight loss sustained over a two-year period, the statement added. In addition, around one-third of patients experienced a reduction of at least 20% in their body weight. The medication has also demonstrated significant improvements in other cardiometabolic risk factors, including waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profile, and glycaemic parameters.Anders Bjorn Hansen, ambassador of Denmark to the UAE and Qatar, lauded the collaboration and innovation driving this initiative. He highlighted Denmark’s commitment to public health, underpinned by a culture of trust and a strong focus on prevention.He also cited Novo Nordisk’s pivotal role in the life sciences ecosystem, developing innovative medicines for chronic diseases.Novo Nordisk Qatar general manager Manvendra Singh acknowledged the critical nature of their collaboration with Ebn Sina in improving patient outcomes through innovative, science-driven solutions, particularly in light of Qatar’s high rates of obesity, diabetes, and CVD.While Wegovy is currently available out-of-pocket for the private market, Singh said that coverage is provided for Qatari patients at Hamad Medical Corporation.For those seeking the medication through private hospitals and clinics, or for non-Qatari nationals, monthly costs range from QR796 to QR1,909, depending on the dosage.Ebn Sina Medical’s commercial director Dr Nayla Mansour highlighted the company’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access and improving patient outcomes across Qatar. She pointed out that obesity is a pressing health challenge impacting individuals, families, and the broader healthcare system, and stressed the importance of equitable access to effective treatment options.Prof Usama ALAlami, head of Medical at Novo Nordisk Qatar, emphasised the link between obesity and other health complications, including diabetes and CVDs.He cited data indicating that Semaglutide 2.4mg could help prevent type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals.

The increasing threat of cybercrime and financial crime, fuelled by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and resulting in an estimated $1.6tn in illegal funds annually, demands a united global response, a top official urged at the Global Security Forum 2025 Tuesday.Colonel Ali Mohammed al-Ali, delegate for Asia, Interpol Executive Committee, and head of Interpol Qatar, cited Qatar’s $1bn investment in cybersecurity initiatives to combat these evolving threats.He underlined the borderless nature of these crimes and their impact on economies, societies, and individual lives.Col al-Ali cited Interpol’s 2024 Global Crime Trends report, which indicates a 70% increase in ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure such as hospitals and schools, illustrating the urgent need for co-ordinated action.“From the streets of New York, the communities worldwide, non-state actors, criminals, syndicates, terrorist groups, and cybercriminal threaten our safety,” he said.Col al-Ali noted that these groups tap advanced technologies, financial networks, and societal vulnerabilities to break laws and destabilise communities, as confirmed by reports like the UK National Strategy Assessment, Europol EU-Socta 2025, and the US 2025 annual Threat Assessment.Noting Qatar’s commitment to global leadership in combating these threats, the official highlighted the nation’s 50-year membership in Interpol and its ongoing efforts to drive key law enforcement initiatives.Col al-Ali said that Qatar is investing more than $1bn by 2026 to bolster its cybersecurity architecture, protecting against a wide range of digital threats.These investments, he explained, are designed not only to safeguard Qatar but also to empower police forces worldwide.Through Interpol’s biometric hub and financial crime centre, Col al-Ali said law enforcement agencies are better equipped to track criminals and their illicit finances across borders.He underscored the importance of innovative approaches to fighting crime, citing Interpol’s “Silver Notice” initiative, which aims to recover criminal assets and disrupt organised crime networks.He also cited the “Think Twice Campaign”, a public awareness initiative designed to educate individuals about scams and prevent criminals from accessing funds.Recognising the double-edged nature of AI, Col al-Ali noted the potential for criminals to exploit the technology.To counter this, he said that Interpol is partnering with the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute to develop a toolkit for the ethical use of AI in law enforcement.This initiative aims to equip police with the tools to ethically detect crimes, track illegal money, and prevent threats.Col al-Ali urged global security partners to deepen their collaboration.“Together, we’ll ensure law enforcement defeats those who threaten our world, protecting the rule of law,” he said.He also pointed to Qatar’s dedication to fostering a united global response to the escalating challenges posed by cybercrime and financial crime.

Big Tech faced a call for increased regulation and scrutiny at the Global Security Forum 2025 Tuesday from a UK lawmaker who argued that the current relationship between governments and tech giants may be compromised and poses a strategic security risk.“The necessary and close relationship between Big Tech and governments is understandable, but it is, I would suggest, nonetheless conflicted,” UK Member of Parliament (MP) Mark Pritchard said in his address at the forum.He questioned whether these close ties had transformed into a form of “corporate kompromat”, a type of agreement where governments overlook potential wrongdoings by tech companies in exchange for future technological advantages and access.Pritchard cited the dual nature of technology, noting its immense potential for good but warning of its increasing exploitation by malign actors.“Tech is a force for good in the world ... but so often, it is used by malign non-state actors to disrupt, divide, and diminish micro-economies, democracy, news reporting, the minds of the young, supply chains, and to undermine the rule of law,” he said.Pritchard underlined the inherent risks of placing blind trust in technology: “...‘In tech we trust’ is not a mantra without inherent risks to both consumers and governments.”He criticised Big Tech’s role in combating these threats, arguing that companies need to do more to shut down malign non-state actors using their platforms.“Big Tech has big responsibilities,” the UK lawmaker said. “Big Tech needs to do more to shut down malign non-state actors, and governments should not rush to absolve Big Tech of its wrongdoings in return for future technology transfer and unfettered access.”He outlined several concerns regarding the unchecked power of Big Tech, including its potential to undermine democratic processes and become “too big to fail”, even exceeding the influence of the global banking system.To address these challenges, Pritchard advocated for a comprehensive strategy.“Smart regulation, certainly more competition, and the recalibration and rebalancing of this relationship with government,” he said, and called for regulatory oversight, increased competition within the tech sector, and a re-evaluation of the relationship between governments and Big Tech.Pritchard pointed out that closer collaboration should not lead to governments “turning a blind eye to breaking laws, licensing an unfiltered and unchecked web, or public policy vetoes”.Beyond the focus on Big Tech, he also addressed the evolving global security landscape, highlighting the increasing threat of state actors using proxies and illicit financing channels.These actors, he said, often engage in activities like human trafficking, drug smuggling, and illegal arms sales to fund their operations and maintain deniability.He defended multilateralism and international co-operation as vital to global stability.

Cybersecurity experts are raising concerns over the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and deepfake technologies by non-state actors, who are increasingly using them to amplify disinformation campaigns and launch sophisticated cyberattacks.Addressing a panel titled ‘Shadow Forces: The Growing Threat of Non-State Actors in Cyber Security and Information Warfare,’ at the Global Security Forum 2025 Monday in Doha, experts explored the increasingly complex and destabilising role of non-state actors – ranging from hacktivist groups and cybercriminal syndicates to ideological extremists and private contractors – who operate outside traditional governmental structures.“The speed of attacks is dramatically increasing,” stressed engineer Abdulrahman Ali Muhammad al-Farahid al-Malki, president of the National Cyber Security Agency of Qatar.He explained that attacks are not only quicker to execute but also utilise existing tools within target systems, making detection significantly more challenging. He cited the growing prevalence of ‘cybercrime as a service,’ noting a disturbing trend of malicious actors offering their services for hire.Al-Malki said that in Qatar, the private sector companies are sharing cyber security information to the government, showing their support to help protect infrastructure and information.He pointed to AI, particularly generative AI tools like ChatGPT, as a key technology being exploited by these actors. “Now we’re seeing a lot of tools similar to ChatGPT used for the attack,” he said, as he also flagged the growing use of deepfakes for creating realistic but entirely fabricated content aimed at manipulating public opinion or generating profit.Anjana Rajan, former Assistant National Cyber Director at the White House, acknowledged the dual-edged nature of AI, saying: “We’re very bullish on the opportunities that come with AI, we are not naive about the risks”.She added that the US government is committed to leading in AI innovation while remaining extremely aware of its potential for weaponisation.Dr Marc Owen Jones, Associate Professor of Media Analytics at Northwestern University in Qatar, noted that inaction of major online platforms, citing their failure to implement readily available technologies to effectively combat deepfakes and disinformation.He argued that recent cuts in US federal funding for disinformation research signalled a “renunciation of responsibility” in addressing this critical threat.Adam Hadley, founder and executive director of Tech Against Terrorism, while expressing optimism about the potential of AI for defence, warned that non-state actors are currently “ahead of the defenders”. He stressed the urgent need for governments to invest in basic Internet infrastructure and skills to effectively tap AI for countering terrorism and other cyber threats.“Governments, law enforcement, they often lack the fundamental tools and skills just to look at the Internet,” Hadley said. “My concern is the significant delay in adopting this technology”.The panel, moderated by Defense One’s Technology and Science editor Patrick Tucker, underlined the importance of enhanced international collaboration, increased information sharing between governments and the private sector, and a proactive approach to technological innovation to effectively combat the evolving threat landscape posed by AI-empowered non-state actors.

President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to Doha – he first by a sitting American president in the last two decades – reflects the growing strategic depth of Qatar-US relations and underscores its significance for regional peace, stability, and investment, according to US ambassador Timmy Davis.Speaking at a Fireside Chat at the Global Security Forum 2025 Tuesday, Davis underlined the depth of the bilateral relationship between the two nations and its growing importance amidst complex regional challenges.He described the US President’s visit as an opportunity to showcase the multilateral co-operation between Qatar and the US, extending from economic partnerships to critical security initiatives.“I think the president’s trip punctuates the importance of all of our shared bilateral issues, peace and stability in the region, and investment in commerce in both directions,” Davis told moderator Peter Bergen, vice president of Global Studies and Fellows at New America and CNN National Security Analyst.Noting a past marked by “misunderstandings” about Qatar and the US, Davis stressed the need to counter those misconceptions with a clear narrative highlighting the mutual benefits of the alliance.He attributed many of these misunderstandings to “incomplete information and ignorance about a country’s view on the world,” which is then misconstrued as “something nefarious.” He said that those who truly understand the Qatar-US relationship, including senior figures in the US government, have a responsibility to tell its story.According to the ambassador, central to this story is Qatar’s crucial contribution to US security, demonstrated by the Al Udeid Air Base. He recounted an anecdote about an American citizen who questioned the necessity of the base, to whom Davis responded: “When you’re asleep in the US, it’s Al Udeid Air Base that is keeping you secure; that air base, that co-operation, that military co-operation is a huge part of our global strategy for security.”About the subject of Qatar’s relationship with Hamas, an issue of acute sensitivity for many Americans, Davis stressed that Qatar’s unique position as a mediator, maintaining channels of communication with Hamas, has been instrumental in de-escalating conflicts in Gaza and securing ceasefires.He emphasised that Qatar’s engagement doesn’t equate to endorsement but reflects the necessity of having a trusted intermediary to facilitate dialogue and resolve conflicts. He described Qatar as “a valuable honest broker.”Davis highlighted Qatar’s potential role in fostering a more stable and peaceful future for the Palestinian people. He pointed out that ensuring economic opportunities and social development for Palestinians is essential for lasting peace.The ambassador also pointed to Qatar’s key role as a mediator between the US and Iran. He said that while Qatar’s relationship with Iran is “effective” rather than “strong,” he believes Qatar can be a valuable channel for communication and negotiation, noting their past success in securing the release of American detainees in Iran as proof of their constructive potential.“It is, I think, axiomatic at this point that if the US wants to, sort of investigate whether we can be helpful and how to be helpful in Lebanon, or in Gaza or in North Africa, we start with Qatar because it’s a reliable relationship, and if we’re going to build partners and partnerships, we know that the relationship that we have with Qatar will only enhance what it is we're trying to do”.

Governments must fundamentally adapt and modernise their approach to global security to effectively counter the rising power of non-state actors who are exploiting rapid technological advancements, according to HE Dr Hessa bin Sultan al-Jaber.“The rising power of non-state actors is not a distant threat; it’s a risk,” she said, stressing that transnational criminal networks, cybersecurity groups, and ideological militants already operate with a speed and agility that far surpasses that of traditional governments.Dr al-Jaber, Qatar's former Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and current member of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG and chairperson of Trio Investment, delivered high-level remarks at the Global Security Forum 2025 in Doha on Monday, highlighting the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how nations address evolving security threats.She noted that these actors move capital, influence societies, and expand both digital and physical borders, all while formal institutions struggle to keep up.In her speech, Dr al-Jaber underlined the staggering scale of the underground cyber-economy, estimating that more than $2tn circulates within it, fueling corruption, conflict, and instability across the globe.“Transnational networks now control key industries, challenging state authority beyond national borders,” she said.Drawing from her background, Dr al-Jaber cited the power of digital platforms in shaping public opinion and altering political narratives at a pace governments struggle to manage. She explained that these networks are fluid, decentralised, and borderless, exploiting gaps in jurisdiction and adapting faster than legal systems can evolve.She pointed out that innovation is accelerating the reach of these actors, with Artificial Intelligence (AI), decentralised finance, and synthetic media lowering the barriers to disruption.“What once required the infrastructure of a nation-state now demands only a laptop and global network,” Dr al-Jaber said.She cited the limitations of traditional governmental approaches, such as border control, static defenses, and containment strategies, which are often bypassed or outpaced by the tactics of these actors.“This is not a fight for dominance; it’s a challenge for adaptation,” Dr al-Jaber said, outlining a multi-pronged approach to address the threat. First, strengthening international co-operation is essential, recognising that non-state actors move freely across borders while institutions remain divided.Another key element is modernising governance by implementing faster, more flexible systems for collaboration and enforcement to match the speed of emerging technologies. She said that adapting to new technology is also crucial, building capacity to understand, regulate, and responsibly use tools like AI and decentralised blockchain finance.She noted that rebuilding public trust also plays a crucial role, recognising societal divisions as vulnerabilities and fostering transparency, accountability, and civic engagement to enhance resilience.Dr al-Jaber warned that outdated structures and fragmented efforts will lead to failure. However, by adapting, operating, and modernising together, nations can not only meet these challenges but also shape a more secure and resilient global order.