Qatar

The Permanent Web Summit Qatar Organizing Committee has continued its preparations for the third edition of Web Summit Qatar (WSQ), to be held in early February 2026. During its regular meeting, the committee reviewed the latest updates related to the global event, including confirmed speakers, strategic international partnerships and the attraction of global trade delegations. The meeting also discussed the outcomes of Qatar's participation at Web Summit Lisbon 2025, which concluded last week. The Qatari delegation presented a comprehensive showcase of investment opportunities and national initiatives supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, reaffirming the nation's standing as a leading destination for technology and innovation. In this regard, Director of the Government Communications Office and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Qatar Organizing Committee Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor al-Thani said: "We are committed to strengthening Web Summit Qatar's position by enabling startups and investors, and providing an ideal platform for the exchange of ideas and for shaping the future digital economy regionally and globally." "We continue to see growing momentum for Web Summit Qatar every year. This was evident during our participation in Web Summit Lisbon, where the Startup Qatar pavilion attracted strong interest from global stakeholders. This confidence inspires us to deliver an exceptional edition that surpasses expectations next year," he added. The committee confirmed during the meeting that IBM will be the official artificial intelligence partner for Web Summit Qatar 2026. It also announced the launch of the IBM Sports Tech Challenge at Web Summit, a competition designed to spotlight startups developing enterprise-grade sports technology and AI solutions. The first stage of the competition will take place at Web Summit Qatar 2026, followed by regional rounds at Web Summit's global events, before concluding with the finals at Web Summit Lisbon 2026. The initiative allows participating startups to receive expert mentorship, gain international visibility and compete for a paid proof of concept valued at up to $100,000, along with evaluation for venture funding to support future growth. The Permanent Web Summit Qatar Organizing Committee also announced a new group of high-profile global figures confirmed to participate in the summit. The committee also provided an update on partners, noting that the total number has now reached 119. The committee also confirmed the participation of new trade delegations, including those from Turkiye and Switzerland. On the media front, the committee highlighted a new group of media professionals who will moderate summit sessions. The Permanent Web Summit Qatar Organizing committee continues its efforts to attract additional participants, investors and partners to ensure a high-impact global edition that reinforces Qatar's position in the digital economy sector.

Qatar Tourism (QT) concluded its participation in the International Cruise Summit (ICS) 2025, held in Madrid, Spain. In a statement, Qatar Tourism affirmed that the 14th edition of the summit is one of the most prominent annual events in the cruise industry. It brings together leading figures and experts from cruise lines, ports, destinations, suppliers, and the media to exchange experiences and discuss prospects for developing this vital sector.**media[384257]**On the sidelines of the summit, the Qatari delegation held a series of bilateral meetings with key decision-makers and cruise planners from leading international companies. These meetings focused on exploring future collaboration opportunities and showcasing Qatar's growing capabilities in the cruise tourism sector. Head of Tourism Development at Qatar Tourism, Omar Abdulrahman al-Jaber participated in a panel discussion titled 'Cruise Destinations: The Real Economic Implications of the Blue Economy', alongside global cruise experts. The discussion covered the most important updates and developments related to cruise tourism worldwide. During the session, al-Jaber talked about Qatar's most prominent achievements in developing the cruise sector, stating: "Qatar is committed to strengthening its position as a leading cruise destination in the Gulf region by expanding co-operation with new international cruise lines and offering integrated tourism experiences that combine culture, entertainment, and world-class events. Developing the cruise sector is a key pillar of Qatar's tourism strategy, contributing to the national economy and enhancing Qatar's reputation as a leading global destination." QT has recently announced the launch of the new 2025-2026 cruise season with the arrival of the luxury cruise ship "MSCIURIA" at the cruise terminal in Old Doha Port. The season will continue until next May, and Qatar is expected to receive 72 cruise calls, including 40 short-term stops, 15 round trips, and 3 maiden voyages.

The State of Qatar has participated in the 4th International Forum on "Women in the Third Millennium," held in Moscow, Russia.The Qatari delegation to the forum was headed by HE Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs at the Ministry of Social Development and Family Sheikha Shaikha bint Jassim Al-Thani.Sheikha Shaikha bint Jassim Al-Thani also participated in the sessions "The Women's Movement in a New Geopolitical Reality: The Structure of a Sustainable Future" and "Diplomacy of Opportunities: Women's Communities as a Driver of International Cooperation."On the sidelines of the forum, the Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs met with Alvia Amirova, President of the International Women's Federation Alvia Amirova.During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries in the fields of women and children and exchanged expertise in this regard.The Family Empowerment Department also participated in the "Made by Women" exhibition, showcasing handicrafts and souvenirs produced by productive families.The aim was to highlight the products of Qatari productive families and market their products at international events and exhibitions. (QNA) QNA 0537 GMT 2025/11/20

Doha Design District and Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) have partnered to conceptualise creative window display designs inspired by Liberty London’s iconic aesthetic. The winning concept, selected by Liberty’s team, was brought to life and featured at the brand’s recently opened store in Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD). Developed as part of a retail design course at VCUarts Qatar, the project challenged students to reinterpret Liberty London’s distinctive brand identity within the architectural and cultural context of MDD. The winning concept, created by Moza al-Marri, Ayat al-Hayki, Reema al-Mohannadi, and Fatima al-Haddad, blended Liberty’s heritage with Msheireb’s modern design ethos, reflecting creativity, sustainability, and cultural harmony. Dana Kazic, director of Doha Design District, said: “This initiative embodies the spirit of Qatar National Vision 2030, where creativity, education, and innovation come together to empower our community. We look forward to building on this collaboration and continuing to create opportunities that celebrate local talent and strengthen Qatar’s position as a regional hub for design and creativity.” Dean Amir Berbić, Dean of VCUarts Qatar, said: " Our students had the coveted opportunity to work with a world-renowned brand, one of our most valued partners, Liberty London. They translated their ideas into a professional context that celebrates design heritage and cultural identity. The winning design draws on a poetic connection between Liberty’s historic London flagship - an architectural icon crafted from the timber of two Royal Navy vessels - and the traditional Dhow boats of Doha. The Liberty store was built to resemble a ship that had journeyed across the world, collecting beautiful objects, art and textiles before anchoring in the heart of London. Embodying the spirit of adventure and discovery, the students reimagined this concept through a Qatari lens of exploration and exchange, echoing the enduring legacy of the Dhow boat, an icon of Qatar’s rich history of pearl trading and global connection. Renowned set designer Miranda Sinclair brought the students’ concept to life, translating their vision into a fully realised spatial installation. Drawing inspiration from the original narrative, Sinclair reinterpreted the story with theatrical flair, featuring ships draped in Liberty fabrics and cargo boxes overflowing with wares. Her design captures both the emotional depth and visual dynamism of the concept.

At Qatar Foundation (QF), values such as respect, empathy, and integrity are not taught as standalone lessons. Instead, they are woven into every learning experience – from community projects and sports to extracurricular activities, theater, and music. “We do not define human values as slogans written on walls or theoretical concepts to be memorised, but as daily behaviour that builds the person before filling notebooks,” says Sara H al-Hajri, director of Student Affairs and Community Engagement at QF Pre-University Education. “They are principles that make the student a moral actor, open to others, and responsible toward their community.**media[384247]**“This is because our goal is to build a balanced personality – not just a student who memorises information. We do not talk to students about values; we place them in situations that produce values.” This model of values-based education plays a vital role in advancing both national development and global sustainability goals. The approach of embedding ethics and empathy into every aspect of learning, al-Hajri says, is “the most sustainable investment in Qatar’s future.” On a local level, QF integrates these values through initiatives such as the Islamic Civilisation Curriculum, which links identity to action, teaching students that civilisation is not something to be told, but to be built. Globally, QF promotes a model that can be applied in any educational context, because, as al-Hajri explains, “values are human, not geographical.” Programmes such as Thimun Qatar see students from countries all over the world come together to practice diplomacy, dialogue, and respect for differences, in a student-led environment. “This is not learning about values,” says al-Hajri. “It is living them on a global scale. “We want students to be rooted in their identity and global in their thinking, because true values create citizens capable of making an impact both locally and globally.” The upcoming WISE 12 Summit – the latest edition of the biennial international gathering of educational expertise organised by QF’s global education initiative WISE – will spotlight QF’s belief in cultivating the values that make us human. Taking place from November 24–25, at the Qatar National Convention Centre, the two-day event, under the theme ‘Humanity.io: Human Values at the Heart of Education,’ will explore the purpose of education and its continuing role in serving humanity even as it incorporates new technologies and innovations. According to Bassim Hijazi, Community Development Lead at WISE, these values have become even more vital in today’s world, one shaped by technology and marked by conflict and climate challenges.

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), organised a series of awareness workshops under the ‘Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Go Digital Programme’. The workshops targeted SMEs operating in the education sector and aimed to promote the adoption of digital solutions and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance services provided within Qatar’s education ecosystem. MCIT noted that the workshops highlighted the role of digital transformation and AI in driving innovation across SMEs operating in the education sector, and included specialised sessions delivered by experts in digital transformation in education. Participants gained valuable insights about the key role of digital technologies in empowering these enterprises, along with practical examples of AI applications that contribute to improving students’ learning experiences, increasing operational efficiency, and creating new opportunities for business growth. Faraj Jassim Abdullah, director of the Digital Economy Department at MCIT, said: “Enhancing the adoption of digital solutions among SMEs through AI is a national priority, as it plays a vital role in achieving the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030. “SMEs are a key driver of the nation’s digital advancement, and our collaboration with MoEHE reflects this vision by equipping SMEs operating in the education sector with modern tools and technologies that improve the quality of education and enrich both student and teacher experiences.” Eman Ali al-Nuaimi, director of the Educational Services Centres Department at MOEHE, said: “MoEHE is committed to preparing Qatar’s next generation of leaders by equipping them with all the tools and technologies needed to succeed in a digital world shaped by AI. “Awareness workshops were delivered to the educational service centres licensed by the ministry to support their digital transformation journey and to demonstrate how modern technologies and AI can be utilised to enhance the quality of educational services, such as analysing learner performance, automating administrative processes, and developing interactive educational content.” The programme offers a wide range of benefits for SMEs, including tailoured digital assessments, customised digital transformation plans, opportunities to connect with service providers, exclusive technology offers, and potential financial support from Qatar Development Bank.

The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), an initiative of Qatar Foundation in collaboration with the Institute of International Education (IIE) in the US, announced the release of a newly published research study titled “Navigating Skills Adaptation: Integrating AI in Higher Education”. The study offers a global comparative perspective on how higher education systems are adapting to artificial intelligence (AI) redefining skills, teaching practices, and pathways to employment. Drawing on case studies from Qatar, Colombia, Ghana, India, Kazakhstan, Spain, and the US, the study explores the evolving role of universities as both catalysts and custodians of AI integration. It examines how institutions are embedding AI across curriculum design, upskilling faculty, preparing students for an AI-driven workforce, and building new bridges between academia and industry. The research study underscores that while AI presents vast opportunities to enhance learning and improve workforce readiness, it also raises urgent questions about ethics, equity, and the preservation of human-centered education. Effective integration requires a balance between digital fluency and critical thinking, and a stronger alignment between higher education and labor markets. “Higher education stands at a pivotal moment. The choices institutions make today will determine whether AI becomes a tool that amplifies human potential or replaces it,” said WISE CEO Stavros N Yiannouka said. The findings call for increased investment in reskilling educators, supporting them to use AI responsibly in administrative and academic contexts. The report also emphasises the need for collaborative frameworks that link academia, government, and industry to mitigate skills gaps and foster innovation across disciplines. “IIE’s partnership with WISE to explore the practical implications of AI in the higher education space builds on our mutual commitment to advance practices and policies that help international education evolve as technology advances,” IIE president and CEO Jason Czyz said. As part of the Consortium on AI and Higher Education for Workforce Development, this study marks the first phase of a long-term research effort by WISE and IIE to map the global landscape of AI in education. “The research emerging from this work addresses current challenges and paves the way for a more adaptive, resilient, and inclusive global higher education landscape,” WISE’s Research and Policy director Selma Talha-Jebril said.

Visit Qatar is gearing up to host the inaugural UFC event  on November 22nd, marking an important milestone in the nation’s growing portfolio of major international sports events. Presented in partnership with UFC, the world’s leading mixed martial arts organisation, UFC Fight Night: Tsarukyan vs Hooker will take place at the state-of-the-art ABHA Arena, bringing elite Mixed Martial Arts competition to Doha for the very first time. The event highlights Visit Qatar’s commitment to growing the country’s sporting calendar with globally recognised competitions that appeal to both residents and visitors. The fight card will be headlined by no. 2-ranked lightweight Arman Tsarukyan and no. 7-ranked Dan Hooker, who will face off in a highly anticipated five-round main event. In the co-main bout, top welterweight contender Belal Muhammad, a regional favourite, will meet Ireland’s rising star Ian Machado Garry in what is expected to be a high-intensity clash. In the lead-up to fight night, fans can enjoy an action-packed week of activities designed to bring them closer to the world of UFC. It features the UFC Fan Zone at Place Vendome Mall, offering interactive experiences including striking challenges, VR fight simulations, fitness activations, and photo opportunities with replica UFC belts, providing an engaging introduction to UFC culture for all ages. The ceremonial weigh-ins will take place today at ABHA Arena, presenting intense face-offs and building anticipation ahead of Saturday’s main event.

Qatar Foundation’s (QF) ‘Heart to Heart’ series is a celebration of the timeless musical technique maqam in its purest form, and its next edition will host a rare solo appearance by Iranian musician and composer Negar Bouban. She will perform ‘Negar Bouban: Oud and Vocals’ in the Black Box Theater at Multaqa (Education City Student Centre) on November 29, with tickets now available for an evening that will blend ancient Persian musical traditions with philosophical narrative. Featuring oud, vocals, and improvisation, and entirely free of amplified sound, screens, and mobile phones, as ‘Heart to Heart’ presents maqam to audiences in a truly authentic setting. Bouban’s performance will reflect the connection between her music and her roots in Persian and Kurdish culture, as well as how she perceives the world and its people. Launched under QF’s Al Ghorrah for Literature and Arts, ‘Heart to Heart’ is devoted to maqam classical music in both its ancient and contemporary forms, and is curated by musician, composer, researcher, and oud player Mustafa Said, founder of the Asil Ensemble. Its performances take place without any amplification or technology, instead relying on the natural acoustics of their setting to create an intimate musical experience that removes barriers between the musician and their audience. Bouban’s performance will be preceded by a ‘3D Geometry’ workshop under QF’s Herfah programme, which is dedicated to reviving and promoting traditional crafts that are deeply rooted in Qatari and Islamic culture. Tickets for the performance are priced at QR50, with the Herfah workshop being complimentary. The performance takes place from 7pm-8pm.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition, Qatar National Library (QNL) hosted the second “Our Children Matter” forum, offering parents, educators, and caregivers valuable insights to support healthy childhood development. Themed “Healthy Childhood, Evolving Skills”, the forum featured insightful presentations on early childhood education, developmental milestones, and strategies to enhance children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Maram al-Mahmoud, manager of Children’s and Young Adults’ Programmes and Services at QNL, said the forum emphasised key strategies to nurture child development during the formative years. “At QNL, we recognise that early childhood is the cornerstone of lifelong learning, and we are determined to continue the forum with the same goal, ensuring it remains a platform for meaningful dialogue and practical outcomes. “Through this forum, we aim to bring together parents, educators, and experts to exchange ideas and strengthen the foundations of early childhood development. By fostering understanding and shared commitment, we seek to build a community that nurtures every child’s potential from the very beginning,” al-Mahmoud added. Faten Azzam, senior librarian, Children’s and Young Adults’ Programmes, at QNL, said early childhood is the foundation for shaping a person’s character. "We aim for this forum to serve as a space filled with valuable educational guidance and information, reflecting our commitment to empowering those responsible for the care and upbringing of children”, Azzam added. The event featured experts in childhood development, including PhD researcher Ahmed Sbeata, founder and CEO of Kydzzo, a platform specialising in child and adolescent behaviour; Dr Maryam Ibrahim al-Shraim, an early childhood education expert with two decades of experience establishing public kindergartens in Qatar; and Heng Huey Bin, manager of the Children’s & Teens’ Library at the National Library Board of Singapore, who leads national children-focused initiatives.

Dr Jery Antony, psychiatrist at Kimshealth Al Mashaf, has been honoured with the prestigious Best Psychiatrist Award at Qatar Medicare 2025, following his recognition in 2024. The award, presented by HeliumDoc, acknowledges his outstanding contributions to mental health care in Qatar. Dr Antony is renowned for his expertise in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and sleep disorders, using a patient-centered approach that combines evidence-based treatments, psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions. In a press statement, Dr Antony said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition again. Our mission at Kimshealth is to provide compassionate, high-quality care for every individual."

HE Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, met yesterday with Ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar, Muhammad Aamer. During the meeting, ways to support and enhance co-operation between the two sides in environmental fields were discussed, alongside a review of several topics of mutual interest. 

Qatar's Charge d'Affaires in Rwanda to QNA: HH Amir's Visit Strengthens Doha-Kigali Partnership, Opens New Horizons for Cooperation Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Qatar to Rwanda, Ali bin Hamad al-Aida said the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Kigali comes at a very important time in light of the rapid transformations taking place in the world at the regional and international levels, noting that it reflects the vision of Qatar in enhancing its openness to the African continent and expanding its partnerships with countries in support of security, stability and sustainable development. Al-Aida said the visit also embodies Rwanda’s status as a reliable partner for Qatar, and the keenness of the leadership of the two countries to elevate bilateral relations to broader horizons within the framework of a partnership based on mutual trust, respect and common interests. He noted that relations between Doha and Kigali have witnessed remarkable development in recent years thanks to continuous communication and the converging vision of the two leaderships, indicating that the current visit comes to push this momentum forward and enhance cooperation to more comprehensive levels, especially in the areas of development, innovation and investment. He highlighted that cooperation between the two countries has achieved tangible results in several sectors, including security, education, transportation, and aviation services, noting that the visit will witness the signing of new agreements that will expand the scope of cooperation and meet the aspirations of the two countries in the next stage. Al-Aida said the visit will have a significant positive impact on the course of relations between the two countries and will contribute to strengthening coordination and cooperation in all fields, thus consolidating joint work based on trust and mutual respect. Regarding future partnerships, he noted that His Highness the Amir's visit marks a new beginning for more comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. He pointed out that the new Bugesera International Airport project, currently under construction, is one of the most prominent avenues for bilateral cooperation, as its completion will contribute to doubling development aspirations and enhancing Rwanda's position as a regional hub for transportation and logistics. Al-Aida, concluded by stressing that the existing partnerships between Qatar and Rwanda represent a practical embodiment of the two countries’ orientation towards promoting sustainable development and achieving regional integration, reflecting the wise vision of the two leaderships in opening new horizons for cooperation towards a prosperous future and lasting stability. (QNA)QNA 1006 GMT 2025/11/20

Relations between Qatar and Rwanda have been marked by rapid growth and a strategic partnership spanning various development fields. Over the past years, the two nations have succeeded in building a solid foundation of cooperation in the areas of economy, investment, education, tourism, aviation, security, and anti-corruption, making Rwanda a key partner in Qatar's outreach to the African continent. The mutual visits by the leadership of both countries reflect their shared commitment to strengthening dialogue, expanding investment opportunities, and achieving sustainable development. This contributes to supporting regional stability and creating new horizons for bilateral cooperation. The visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the Rwandan capital, Kigali, to meet Rwanda President Paul Kagame comes within the framework of strengthening the close relations between the two nations and reaffirming the mutual commitment to enhancing the foundation of sustainable investment and expanding its prospects in a way that serves their common goals. Qatar's successful mediation in resolving the dispute between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, announced in Doha on March 18, followed by the final signing of the peace agreement, which included armed groups, on November 15, 2025, crowned nearly a decade of distinguished relations between Qatar and Rwanda. This reflects the fruitful cooperation and a shared desire by the leadership of both countries to strengthen bilateral ties and elevate it to an advanced level of political and economic partnership. In March, His Highness the Amir hosted both Rwanda President Paul Kagame and the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Felix Tshisekedi to reaffirm the commitment of all parties to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as agreed upon. Both sides expressed their gratitude for Qatar's efforts and for the role of His Highness the Amir, which contributed to building trust between the two countries. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Qatar and Rwanda in 2017, both sides have strived to elevate these relations to a level of productive partnership and robust investments. Regular reciprocal visits between His Highness the Amir and the Rwandan president, along with high-level governmental delegations, have helped drive forward joint cooperation across vital sectors, broaden the scope of bilateral agreements, and enhance coordination on related issues in various international forums. Undoubtedly, Qatar constitutes a significant economic force within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), owing to its distinguished capabilities in global energy markets, infrastructure, international trade, and diplomatic negotiation efforts. Rwanda, meanwhile, is one of Africa's fastest-growing economies, offering a dynamic and stable investment environment in sectors such as textiles, apparel, leather, agriculture, livestock, manufacturing, tourism, ICT, and pharmaceuticals. At the institutional level, on February 7, 2025, Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and GiveDirectly signed a grant agreement worth approximately $5mn during the 2025 Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Partnership Forum, aimed at supporting families living in extreme poverty in Rwanda for a one-year period, underscoring the commitment of QFFD and its partners to assisting the most vulnerable. Funded by QFFD, GiveDirectly, in collaboration with the Rwandan government, will provide lump sum cash grants of $1,100 to 3,979 households experiencing extreme poverty. This initiative falls under the Habwa Wigire ('Receive and build your own future') Programme, implemented in coordination with the ministry of local government (MINALOC) in Rwanda. The programme aims to accelerate the reduction of the national poverty gap and provide a successful model for poverty reduction that can be replicated nationally, and eventually globally. This trilateral agreement seeks to accelerate the implementation of Rwanda's National Strategy for Transformation toward Vision 2050 by eradicating poverty. The partnership also supports Rwanda's agricultural economy, upon which more than two-thirds of the rural population depends for their livelihoods, and which provides income for nearly 60% of the country's population. In terms of investments, Qatar has undertaken its largest investment in Africa, constructing a new international airport on the outskirts of Kigali, the capital, at a cost of $1.6bn. The majority of the project was completed in 2023. Qatar Airways also signed two agreements with Rwandan tourism air transport company and an agreement with the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority. Qatar and Rwanda are linked by an array of agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoU) covering political, diplomatic, economic, trade, agricultural, cultural, and sports sectors, in addition to investment and cooperation sectors in aviation and double taxation avoidance. The two countries also signed an agreement for Qatar to acquire 60% of the share of the Rwandan Bugesera International Airport. Furthermore, a MoU for defence cooperation exists between the two friendly nations, addressing military and defense relations and ways to strengthen and develop them. Hassad Food, a Qatari company that invests in achieving food security for Qatar, signed a MoU for food cooperation with Rwanda in 2018. This aligns with Hassad's new strategy, which aims to become a successful strategic investor in global food and agricultural production by exploring available investment opportunities in the food and agricultural sectors. In a related development, a MoU was signed between the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) and Rwanda Finance Limited (RFL), with the aim of facilitating joint initiatives that contribute to enhancing the growth of both QFC and the KIFC, as well as encouraging the regulatory bodies responsible for overseeing the performance and operations of both financial centres to enter mutual recognition agreements, thus opening new avenues and creating more business opportunities in both markets, and fostering durable partnerships with global markets that supports Qatar's economic diversification strategy and enhancing its economic capabilities and potential. The agreements signed between the two countries include one that enables passengers on RwandAir and Qatar Airways to access over 160 destinations on their combined networks from Kigali and Doha. In December 2023, on the sidelines of the International Conference on Air Services Negotiations (ICAN) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, bilateral talks were held between the civil aviation authorities of Qatar and Rwanda, resulting in positive outcomes, including the signing of a MoU that allows the relevant airlines in both countries to enter into joint commercial cooperation agreements. It is worth noting that Rwanda has recorded an impressive economic growth rate, with an average GDP growth rate exceeding 7%. Over the past decade, thanks to strategic investments in technology, agriculture, tourism, and industry, Rwanda has made significant strides. The country has also achieved comprehensive health coverage, improved the quality of education, and promoted gender equality across various sectors. Located in the heart of Africa, south of the equator within the Great Lakes region, Rwanda is a landlocked country. It connects to the outside world through its neighbours, particularly via the ports of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Mombasa in Kenya. Its area exceeds 26,000 square kilometers, and its population is estimated at 15mn in 2025. Visitors to Rwanda will readily perceive the country's remarkable economic boom. Rwanda, whose name means "Land of a Thousand Hills," attracts tourists from around the world with its unique and breathtaking natural beauty. 

Rwanda government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Rwanda is a milestone that reflects the depth of the strong relations between the two countries. Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Makolo said the visit confirms the growing friendly relations between Qatar and Rwanda, and reflects the two sides' keenness to strengthen the existing partnership further and expand the horizons of cooperation in various fields. Rwanda looks forward to this visit due to its political and economic significance, Makolo said, noting the visit also presents an opportunity to build upon the solid foundations laid by Rwanda President Paul Kagame and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Makolo emphasised that the future of cooperation between the two countries is very promising in light of the strong relations and mutual understanding between the two leaderships. On the prospects for future cooperation, Makolo said the strategic investments made by Qatar in Rwanda is considered a model of fruitful cooperation, adding Rwanda looks forward to achieving more in various fields of mutual interest. She also expressed her country's belief that the visit of His Highness the Amir enhances the prospects for relations between the two countries in a positive and beneficial way for both sides. As for sectors of priority for both countries, Makolo said technology, innovation, energy, and agriculture are important platforms for strategic cooperation, noting that these sectors form a solid foundation for their partnership. She highlighted the importance of diversifying Rwanda's economic activities, indicating that her country can greatly benefit from Qatar's expertise in the energy sector. Developing the agricultural sector is also a priority for Rwanda, she continued, noting that her country sees it as a crucial area for strengthening its partnership with Qatar. She pointed out Rwanda's interest in opening up wider areas of cooperation in these sectors because of their long-term impact on the future of both countries, stressing Rwanda's aspiration for joint investment to achieve economic development that benefits both peoples. Describing the current level of relations between Doha and Kigali as "excellent," Makolo said both countries are continuously working to strengthen and develop those relations. "On the political field, Qatar is a trusted partner. In peace and security, we value the role Qatar is playing in mediating on important global issues, including the ongoing situation in the Great Lakes region," she said, praising Qatar's unique approach in dealing with these issues sustainably, which is highly appreciated by Rwanda. Makolo also stressed that the relationship between the two countries is based on solid foundation that have paved the way for development of extensive cooperation in multiple fields, highlighting the strength of their partnership in the education sector. "We very much appreciate the Zero-Out-Of-School project that is funded by Qatar," she said, noting that building human capacity is a key priority for Rwanda. "We have Rwandan students studying in Qatar, and we would like even more student to go there. That is also a part of our strategy for growing our economy," she continued. Makolo concluded by affirming that relations between the two countries will witness further development in the next stage - both at the political and economic levels, thanks to the shared vision and mutual will to enhance bilateral cooperation. (QNA)QNA 0251 GMT 2025/11/20

The State of Qatar participated Thursday in a high-level briefing on Wage Protection Systems (WPS) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, convened on the margins of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Governing Body meetings in Geneva.His Excellency Minister of Labour Dr Ali bin Samikh al-Marri represented the State of Qatar at the session. The session, organized by the Executive Bureau of the Council of Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs in the GCC States, and supported by the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar and the Permanent Mission of the GCC in Geneva, showcased the outcomes of a joint study undertaken with the ILO on the evolution of WPS across the region.The meeting underscored the collective determination of GCC countries to continue strengthening labour market governance, promote fair working conditions, and advance the objectives of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, in line with broader commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals.In his address, His Excellency Dr Ali bin Samikh al-Marri described the joint study as a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between the GCC and the ILO. He noted that the findings reflect a shared resolve to uphold social justice, reinforce workers' rights, and entrench the principles of decent work across the region.HE the Minister highlighted that the GCC's experience in wage protection has matured into a recognized regional and international model. He emphasized that the transition from traditional regulations to integrated digital platforms has enhanced transparency, strengthened compliance, and ensured timely payment of wages - contributing to greater trust between employers and workers, and supporting long-term labour market stability.He added that this progress is anchored in a clear political commitment from GCC governments to balance robust worker protection with the growth and continuity of private-sector enterprises, through a framework grounded in transparency, accountability, and constructive engagement with international partners.His Excellency the Minister of Labour reaffirmed that wage protection remains a central pillar of Qatar's labour market reforms. He noted that the country has implemented a comprehensive suite of mechanisms - including the electronic WPS, streamlined dispute-resolution pathways, and the Workers' Support and Insurance Fund - all contributing to the broader agenda of social justice and to the objectives of the Global Coalition.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani arrived in Kigali, on an official visit to the Republic of Rwanda. His Highness the Amir was welcomed upon arrival to Kigali International Airport by President of the Republic of Rwanda Paul Kagame. Also present to welcome His Highness the Amir was Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe, Chief of Defence Staff General Mubarakh Muganga, Mayor of the City of Kigali Samuel Dusengiyumvam, Ambassador of Rwanda to Qatar Igor Marara Kayinamura, a number of senior officials, and members of Qatar's Embassy.His Highness the Amir is accompanied by an official delegation. * Qatar and Rwanda: strategic integration toward sustainable future Relations between Qatar and Rwanda have been marked by rapid growth and a strategic partnership spanning various fields.**media[384147]**Over the past years, the two nations have succeeded in building a solid foundation of cooperation in the areas of economy, investment, education, tourism, aviation, security, and anti-corruption, making Rwanda a key partner in Qatar's outreach to the African continent.The mutual visits exchanged between the leadership of both countries reflect their shared commitment to strengthening dialogue, expanding investment opportunities, and achieving sustainable development. This contributes to supporting regional stability and creating new horizons for bilateral cooperation.The visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the Rwandan capital, Kigali, to meet with President Paul Kagame comes within the framework of strengthening the close relations between the two nations and reaffirming the mutual commitment to enhancing the foundations of sustainable investment and expanding its prospects in a way that serves their common goals.

Qatar strongly condemned the brutal Israeli occupation attacks in the Gaza Strip, which led to deaths and injuries, considering it a dangerous escalation that threatens to undermine the ceasefire agreement in the Strip. In a statement Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed the need for concerted regional and international efforts to maintain and adhere to the ceasefire agreement, paving the way for ending the war on Gaza and achieving a just and sustainable peace in the region.**media[384138]**The Ministry reiterated Qatar's firm and unwavering stance in supporting the Palestinian cause and the steadfastness of the fraternal Palestinian people, based on international legitimacy resolutions and the two-state solution, which guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.**media[384137]**Qatar condemns Israeli violation of Syrian territories Qatar strongly condemned the entry of the Israeli prime minister and a number of ministers and officials in the occupation government into the occupied Syrian territories, considering it a blatant violation of the sovereignty of the fraternal Syrian Arab Republic, a flagrant violation of international law, and a serious threat to regional security.**media[384139]**In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the international community to take urgent action to compel the Israeli occupation to comply with international law resolutions, particularly the 1974 ceasefire agreement, and to stop its repeated attacks on Syrian territory to prevent further escalation and tension in the region.**media[384135]**The ministry reiterated Qatar's full support for Syria's sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and the aspirations of its fraternal people for security and stability. Qatar slams Israeli airstrike on Ain al-Hilweh refugee campQatar strongly condemned the Israeli raid that targeted Ain Al Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp near the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon, which resulted in martyrs and wounded.**media[384136]**The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed in a statement Thursday that this raid represents a brutal attack on the defenceless Palestinian people and the sovereignty of the sisterly Lebanese Republic, as well as a flagrant violation of international laws and conventions, stressing, in this context, the need for the international community to act urgently to stop the dangerous Israeli attacks that threaten to spread chaos and violence in the region.**media[384140]**The Ministry reiterated Qatar's position supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon, in addition to the just Palestinian cause and the legitimate rights of the brotherly Palestinian people.

Qatari businessman and philanthropist His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani led the inauguration of the sixth edition of the Qatar Luxury Classic Cars Contest & Exhibition 2025 at The Pearl Island Wednesday.He was joined by officials of the Gulf-Qatari Classic Car Association. Running until November 23 at Medina Centrale, the event displays an array of classic vehicles from Qatar and across the GCC.

The Artificial Intelligence and its Role in the Accounting and Auditing Profession conference commenced Wednesday, bringing together experts and professionals from Qatar and abroad to discuss the major transformations the sector is undergoing amid rapid advancements in modern technologies. The conference also explored the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence presents to accounting and auditing practices.**media[383490]**Organised by the Qatar Association of Certified Public Accountants (QCPA) under the patronage of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the conference sessions focused on the latest AI tools used in accounting, their role in financial data analysis, the challenges associated with their implementation, and ways to enhance compliance and transparency and improve financial risk management using smart technologies.The conference also highlighted the importance of ethical considerations in employing AI in accounting, particularly regarding data privacy protection and information security, given their pivotal role in fostering confidence in the results of financial transactions.During the opening session, QCPA President, Dr. Hashim al-Sayed, affirmed that the world is witnessing numerous developments, most notably in information and communication technology, where AI has begun performing many tasks previously carried out by humans, across various fields.**media[383488]**The accounting profession was no exception; in fact, it is among the ones most affected by artificial intelligence, facing numerous challenges that have forced it to keep pace with change and development.In his address, Dr al-Sayed pointed out that AI has become a strategic partner for accountants, helping them improve quality and performance, and giving them time to develop their skills amidst the digital transformation that institutions are undergoing. He also called for updating academic programmes to keep pace with technological advancements and to enable members of the profession to acquire data analysis skills and work with smart tools.In a later session, QCPA Board member, Dr Ali al-Kubaisi, reviewed the challenges facing the application of artificial intelligence in accounting and auditing, explaining that these challenges are both local and global.He noted that among the most prominent local challenges are inconsistencies in data formatting across systems used, the presence of bilingual financial documents that reduce the accuracy of intelligent models, outdated information systems, and limited historical data. Globally, challenges include poor data quality due to a lack of consistency or completeness, the difficulty of interpreting the outputs of many AI models that operate as black boxes, high implementation costs, and cybersecurity risks that may introduce new vulnerabilities into financial systems.In a third session, QCPA board member, Abdullah al-Mansoori, spoke about sustainability in accounting and auditing in the age of artificial intelligence and the importance of linking the two. He addressed the concept of sustainability in the financial context, the relationship between sustainability and AI in accounting, sustainability in government accounting and the public sector, as well as the current challenges facing accounting in the era of AI and the professional risks associated with digital auditing.It is worth noting that the conference is part of the QCPA's efforts to enhance communication and exchange expertise among specialists, and to discuss the latest trends in AI and modern accounting technologies, in light of the radical transformation the sector is undergoing due to digital developments.