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Qatar Chamber held a coordination meeting yesterday with the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) to discuss preparations for the ‘Private Sector Forum’, which will be held as part of the Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled in Doha until November 6. The meeting was co-chaired by Engineer Nasser al-Meer, advisor to the chairman of Qatar Chamber for Labour Affairs, and Roberto Suárez Santos, secretary general of the IOE. Also present at the meeting were Mohira Kurbanova, governance officer at the IOE; Hamad Ali al-Marri, director of the Business Committees and Councils Affairs Department at Qatar Chamber; and Al-Anoud al-Mohannadi, director of the Member Affairs Department. During the meeting, participants discussed the themes and issues to be addressed in the ‘Private Sector Forum’ as part of the summit’s agenda. The discussions focused on aligning the forum’s topics with those of the summit, including subjects related to artificial intelligence, the circular economy, and training and supporting innovators aspiring to enter the business world. For his part, Santos praised the remarkable progress achieved by Qatar in the field of social development, noting that it serves as an inspiring model for many countries around the world.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani will patronise the opening of the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD) 2025, Tuesday at the Qatar National Convention Center.The summit will bring together Their Majesties, Highnesses and Excellencies heads of state and government, senior officials, and representatives from brotherly and friendly countries, in addition to delegates from regional and international organisations and institutions.The United Nations General Assembly, through Resolutions 78/261 and 78/318, decided to convene the World Social Summit, under the title “Second World Summit for Social Development”.Thirty years after the landmark 1995 World Summit for Social Development in Copenhagen, the global community will gather once again — this time in Doha, Qatar, from 4-6 November 2025 — for the Second World Summit for Social Development.Building on the 10 Commitments of the 1995 Summit and the Copenhagen Declaration, the Second Summit will accelerate action on poverty eradication, the promotion of full employment and decent work, and social inclusion, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. It aims to address persistent gaps, reaffirm global commitment to social development, and give new momentum to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.In Doha, world leaders will come together to redefine strategies for social progress, strengthen global partnerships, and promote inclusive policies that foster equitable opportunities for all. The goal: to build societies that are more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable.The summit will serve as a pivotal platform for dialogue, co-operation, and joint solutions, convening governments, international organisations, the UN system, civil society, co-operatives, academia, the private sector, and experts to strengthen international co-operation for inclusive social development.

Coinciding with Qatar's hosting of the Second World Summit for Social Development, and as part of national measures to support public safety and security, the Ministry of Transport calls upon maritime vessel owners, be they individuals or companies, to suspend all forms of maritime navigation as well as maritime vessel leasing (pleasure, tourism, fishing, scooters, and the like) from Hamad International Airport to the waterfront of Fairmont Hotel in Lusail City.This circular is effective from 06:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 04, through 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 07, 2025. The Ministry urges all to abide by this circular and cooperate for the success of national and international events taking place in Qatar.**media[376864]**

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met at the Amiri Diwan on Monday with King Philippe of the friendly Kingdom of Belgium on the occasion of his visit to Qatar to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development, which will begin in Doha Tuesday.At the outset of the meeting, His Highness the Amir welcomed the king of Belgium and his accompanying delegation and underscored the importance of the strong ties between the two countries across a variety of fields.**media[376830]**His Highness further underlined that Qatar looks forward to strengthening these relations and elevating them to new heights for the joint interests of the two friendly nations, expressing his thanks to the king for responding to the invitation to participate in the summit.For his part, the king of Belgium expressed his thanks to His Highness the Amir for the warm welcome and the invitation to participate in the summit, emphasising his country’s keenness to deepen the relations of friendship and co-operation with Qatar and advance them in all fields.The king further lauded His Highness the Amir’s role and Qatar’s supportive efforts for peace in the region and the world.**media[376832]**During the meeting, they discussed the bilateral relationship between the two friendly nations and ways to enhance it in multiple areas, key regional and global developments, and a range of subjects of shared interest.HE the Chief of the Amiri Diwan Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Mubarak al-Khulaifi, HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh al-Khulaifi, alongside a number of high-ranking officials, attended the meeting.Attending from the Belgian side were Minister of Consumer Protection, the Fight against Social Fraud, Persons with Disabilities and Equal Opportunities, Rob Beenders, along with members of the official delegation accompanying the king.His Highness the Amir and King Philippe held a bilateral meeting during which they discussed a range of issues of mutual interest on the regional and global stages.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani met on Monday morning at the Amiri Diwan with Vice President of the People's Republic of China Han Zheng and his accompanying delegation, who are currently visiting Qatar to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to be held in Doha from November 4 to 6.The meeting discussed bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and ways to strengthen and develop them across various fields.The two sides also reviewed key regional and international developments, in addition to several topics of common interest.The meeting was attended by His Excellency Chief of the Amiri Diwan Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Khulaifi, His Excellency Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi, and a number of Their Excellencies ministers and senior officials.

Thirty years after the landmark 1995 World Summit for Social Development in Copenhagen, the global community will gather once again — this time in Doha, for three days from tomorrow (Tuesday, November 4) for the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2). In a world facing growing inequalities, demographic shifts, and rapid technological transformation, the need for a renewed commitment to social progress has never been more urgent.Convening at the level of Heads of State or Government, WSSD2 aims to address the gaps and recommit to the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development and the Programme of Action and its implementation and give momentum towards the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Pre-Summit events will kick off today (Monday, November 3) with Qatar co-hosting the First Leaders’ Meeting of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, with Brazil, and the Doha Solutions Forum for Social Development, with France.Building on the 10 Commitments of the 1995 Summit and the Copenhagen Declaration, the WSSD will accelerate action on poverty eradication, the promotion of full employment and decent work, and social inclusion, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. It aims to address persistent gaps, reaffirm global commitment to social development, and give new momentum to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.In Doha, world leaders will come together to redefine strategies for social progress, strengthen global partnerships, and promote inclusive policies that foster equitable opportunities for all. The goal: to build societies that are more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. The Summit will serve as a pivotal platform for dialogue, co-operation, and joint solutions, convening governments, international organisations, the UN system, civil society, co-operatives, academia, the private sector, and experts to strengthen international co-operation for inclusive social development.In his welcome message on the conference website, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani stated that this Summit will assess progress, identify implementation gaps, and reaffirm the collective commitment to advancing social development, ensuring that no one is left behind.“The State of Qatar consistently upholds its commitment to human-centred development, both nationally and globally. Through investments in education, health, social protection, and the promotion of productive employment and decent work for all, we continue to advance social justice and foster inclusion. We have championed the integration of social, economic, and environmental policies, adopting a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach that places people at the centre of our development.“The convening of this Summit in Doha reflects Qatar’s deep belief in multilateralism and global solidarity. As a long-standing partner of the United Nations, the State of Qatar has consistently supported global efforts to promote peace, social justice, and sustainable development. Over the years, we have hosted numerous high-level UN conferences, providing a platform for dialogue and co-operation on some of the most pressing global challenges. These efforts reflect our enduring dedication to the values and objectives of the United Nations and our vision for a world where prosperity is accessible to all.“As we prepare to welcome the world to Doha, we look forward to working closely with Member States, the United Nations, civil society, academia, and the private sector to advance social justice, rebuild trust in institutions, and shape a new course for global social development. The State of Qatar stands ready to contribute to this shared mission and to support a successful and transformative Summit,” His Highness the Amir added in his message.

President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, arrived in Doha yesterday to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development, hosted by Qatar from Nov 4 to 6. He was welcomed upon arrival at Hamad International Airport by the HE Director of Protocol, Ibrahim bin Yousif Fakhro, and ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Valerie Lusamba Kabeya.

Vice President of the People's Republic of China, Han Zheng arrived in Doha Sunday to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development, which is hosted by the State of Qatar from November 4 to 6.China's Vice President was welcomed upon arrival at Hamad International Airport by HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al-Thani and HE Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the State of Qatar, Cao Xiaolin.

The visit of His Excellency President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Doha this week to attend the Second World Summit for Social Development marks a significant milestone in the steadily deepening relationship between Qatar and Uzbekistan. It highlights not only the strong diplomatic ties that unite our two nations but also the shared aspirations for sustainable growth, social progress, and cultural understanding grounded in our common Islamic heritage.Shared Heritage, Modern VisionBoth Qatar and Uzbekistan represent two vibrant centers of the Islamic world—one in the Gulf, the other in the heart of Central Asia—each with a rich legacy of scholarship, culture, and tolerance. Uzbekistan, the land of Bukhara and Samarkand, was once the beating heart of the Silk Road, where trade and learning flourished. Qatar, meanwhile, has emerged as a global hub for dialogue, education, and innovation in the 21st century.The convergence of these histories and values gives special depth to their cooperation today. Both nations uphold the principles of dialogue, peace, and development championed by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations.Economic Synergy and Energy PartnershipEconomically, Qatar and Uzbekistan are increasingly aligned in their ambitions. Uzbekistan’s ongoing reforms have opened new avenues for foreign investment, especially in energy, logistics, finance, and infrastructure—fields where Qatar possesses world-class expertise and capacity.Qatar’s leading energy companies, including QatarEnergy, have expressed interest in contributing to Uzbekistan’s ambitious plans to modernize its gas infrastructure and expand renewable energy projects. This cooperation reflects a mutually beneficial dynamic: Qatar brings energy know-how and capital, while Uzbekistan offers promising markets and strategic access to Central Asia.In turn, Uzbekistan’s growing textile and agricultural industries present opportunities for Qatari investors eager to diversify portfolios beyond hydrocarbons. Bilateral trade, though modest in volume today, is poised for further growth through enhanced connectivity and economic cooperation.Social Development and Human CapitalThe President’s participation in the World Summit for Social Development in Doha underscores both nations’ shared commitment to placing people at the heart of progress. The summit’s focus on education, equity, and sustainable livelihoods resonates deeply with the development agendas of Qatar and Uzbekistan.Qatar’s experience in human capital development—through initiatives like the Qatar Foundation and Education City—serves as a model for collaboration. Uzbekistan, with its large and youthful population, is undertaking substantial education reforms and digital transformation efforts that align with Qatar’s expertise in innovation and smart infrastructure.Such cooperation not only strengthens bilateral ties but also contributes to a broader Islamic and global agenda for inclusive growth—where social justice, knowledge, and economic empowerment go hand in hand.Cultural Diplomacy and Shared ValuesBeyond economics, Qatar and Uzbekistan share a commitment to cultural diplomacy. Both nations invest in preserving Islamic art, architecture, and heritage, while also promoting modern creative industries. Cultural exchanges—through art exhibitions, academic cooperation, and media collaboration—enhance mutual understanding and reaffirm the role of culture as a bridge between civilizations.Qatar Museums and Uzbek cultural institutions have already engaged in dialogue exploring partnerships that would bring Central Asian Islamic art to audiences in Doha and beyond. These efforts strengthen the spiritual and cultural fabric connecting the Gulf and Central Asia.A Future of Cooperation and StabilityAs global challenges grow more complex—whether in energy transition, climate change, or geopolitical uncertainty—the cooperation between nations sharing both vision and values becomes even more vital. Qatar and Uzbekistan are demonstrating that faith, modernity, and social progress can coexist harmoniously.The visit of President Mirziyoyev thus stands as a testament to an expanding partnership—one that moves beyond diplomacy to encompass trade, education, energy, and shared human values. It embodies the spirit of South–South cooperation and the belief that prosperity is best achieved through collaboration, not competition.As both nations chart their paths toward 2030 and beyond, the partnership between Qatar and Uzbekistan can serve as a model of constructive engagement in the Islamic world—a partnership rooted in mutual respect, cultural affinity, and a joint commitment to a fairer, more inclusive world.

A flag-raising ceremony for the State of Qatar and the United Nations was held on Sunday morning at the Qatar National Convention Centre to mark the opening of the Second World Summit for Social Development, hosted in Doha from November 4 to 6.**media[376455]**The summit features high-level participation from heads of state and government, as well as representatives of international and regional organizations.The ceremony was attended by HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi; HE UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua; senior Qatari officials; and representatives of the United Nations.**media[376458]**In his remarks, HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed Qatar's pride in hosting this major international event, held 30 years after the first social summit in Copenhagen.He affirmed that Qatar's hosting of the summit reflects its firm commitment to inclusive and sustainable social development and to multilateral cooperation in pursuit of social justice and well-being for all peoples.He added that the summit offers a pivotal opportunity to advance global dialogue on social development and accelerate implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.His Excellency also praised the strategic partnership between Qatar and the United Nations, highlighted by the opening of the UN House in Doha, which underscores Qatar's role as a trusted partner in supporting joint efforts with the international organization.**media[376457]**The occasion featured a parachute display organized by Education Above All Foundation, in collaboration with the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) and the Qatar Air Sports Committee of the Joint Special Forces, with parachutists soaring over Doha bearing banners of the Sustainable Development Goals.The ceremony concluded with the raising of the flags of Qatar and the United Nations by Lekhwiya and UN security personnel, accompanied by celebratory music performed by the Lekhwiya band, a symbolic scene reflecting the depth of the partnership between Qatar and the United Nations and their shared commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable social development.

The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a global education and development organisation, will take part in the Second World Summit for Social Development, to be held in Doha from 4 to 6 November 2025. EAA Foundation will convene and host six high-level sessions alongside strategic partners, addressing education challenges, youth empowerment, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth, underscoring the Foundation’s vision of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.On 4 November, Silatech programme will host a high-level session in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), under the theme “An Introspective Look: From Challenges to Solutions for Advancing Youth Economic Empowerment Programming”. The session will take stock of youth employability and employment programming, and of progress towards SDG #8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. As part of this examination, the high-level event aims to identify meaningful solutions to move the needle forward on tackling youth unemployment through encouraging innovative approaches to decent work and social inclusion. The session aims to highlight the importance of prioritising relevant, responsive youth employability and employment programmes and policies that address the major global shifts and realities of today and the future.Also on the same day, Al Fakhoora Programme, in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and Al Jazeera Media Network, will lead a session titled “Unheard, Unseen, Unstoppable: Rethinking Social Progress Through the Lens of Displaced Youth.” This thought-provoking discussion will explore how education in crisis restores a sense of purpose and possibility, how reintegration and durable solutions rebuild lives with dignity, and how the media can reshape narratives around displacement to reveal not only the suffering but also the strength, talent, and determination of young people rising from conflict.In addition, Silatech programme, in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP), Qatar Fund For Development, and the Government of Kenya, will take part in a high-level session titled “Unlocking Skills, Employment, and Resilient Food Systems in Kenya.” The event will emphasise how partnerships between government, international organisations, and the private sector can strengthen economic inclusion, promote green value chains, and create sustainable livelihoods, positioning Kenya as a model for integrated, climate-resilient development.On 5 November, the Education Above All (EAA) Foundation will co-host, in partnership with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) netFWD, a high-level session titled “From Silos to Synergy: Unlocking Education Financing Through Philanthropy.” The session will explore how innovative Public-Private-Philanthropy Partnerships (PPPPs) can help close the global education financing gap and expand access to quality learning across the Global South. The discussion will highlight the role of philanthropy in de-risking investments, fostering collaboration between foundations and development partners, and driving inclusive, locally led education initiatives that advance Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education.Also, the Reach Out To All (ROTA) programme, in collaboration with the Silver Lining for the Needy Initiative (SLNI), UNDP, UNICEF and the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), will host a session titled “Learning for Climate Resilience: Integrated Pathways for Poverty Eradication, Jobs & Inclusion.” This important panel discussion will demonstrate how education serves as a vital enabler of climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods, showcasing integrated models that combine literacy, vocational training, and climate education to empower youth and women, particularly in fragile and climate-affected contexts, to build a more inclusive and sustainable future.On 6 November, the Educate A Child (EAC) programme, in collaboration with UNICEF, will hold a high-level session titled Education as a Key Pillar for Poverty Eradication, Employment, and Social Inclusion. The session will centre on education as the driver of social development, highlighting its power to break cycles of poverty and build inclusive, resilient societies. It will also emphasise the importance of collective investment and cross-sectoral collaboration to place education at the heart of global social development agendas, reaffirming EAC’s mission to ensure that every child receives an education that opens doors to dignity, opportunity, and inclusion.Mr. Mohammed Al Kubaisi, CEO of EAA Foundation, Said:“The Second World Summit for Social Development provides a unique platform to strengthen global partnerships for social progress. Our sessions reflect EAA’s conviction that education, when pursued through inclusive, innovative, and collaborative approaches, can drive tangible change across nations and generations.”Ahead of the Summit, the EAA Foundation, in collaboration with Lekhiwya Internal Security Force, held a symbolic Parachute Show at Education City’s Green Spine, creating a powerful visual celebration of the Sustainable Development Goals. The display featured nine parachute jumps, each representing one of the SDGs aligned with EAA’s mission, alongside a parachute bearing the EAA logo. The event served as a striking representation of EAA’s commitment to advancing education, equity, and sustainability.For more information about EAA Foundation, visit www.educationaboveall.org

Qatar Charity in co-operation with Nigeria’s Katsina State Government, has implemented a variety of income-generating projects, economically empowering 160 individuals, including women, orphans, and vulnerable groups.The initiative aims to restore dignity, create opportunities, and enable beneficiaries to achieve economic independence. The implementation of these projects coincides with the upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to take place in Doha from November 4 to 6. The summit aims to reaffirm global commitment to social development, address existing gaps, accelerate efforts to eradicate poverty, promote full employment and decent work, and achieve social inclusion.The income-generating projects included the distribution of 100 sewing machines, 20 passenger tricycles, 20 cargo tricycles, and 20 grinding machines, benefiting individuals from across the state.Beneficiaries were nominated by the state government and verified by Qatar Charity using a rigorous process that prioritised vulnerability, business skills, and readiness. Speaking at the ceremony, Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, described the initiative as more than material support, emphasising its role in restoring dignity and creating opportunities for vulnerable citizens. He urged beneficiaries to use the items wisely to start small businesses, generate income, support their families, and improve their livelihoods through hard work and discipline.“The empowerment items are more than material support – they are tools for transformation and steps toward economic independence,” governor Radda stated. Governor Radda acknowledged Qatar Charity Nigeria’s critical role in humanitarian work across Katsina State and Nigeria. “Your work is planting seeds of change, and we are deeply grateful,” he said, pledging to expand such initiatives to empower every orphan, widow, and vulnerable person in the state.Assem Abu al-Shaer, country director of Qatar Charity’s Nigeria office, emphasised the transformative impact of the empowerment items, noting that each piece of equipment will help beneficiaries generate income and create opportunities for others.