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In line with Vodafone Qatar’s commitment to health and safety, its executive team recently visited two key telecommunications network sites.Under the oversight of Acting Chief Administrative Officer Abdulla A al-Misnad and Chief Technology Officer Ramy Boctor, the visit included briefings with field teams and reviews of critical controls for work at height, lifting operations, electrical isolation, RF exposure, permit-to-work processes, and checks on emergency preparedness.The executives also engaged the crews on Vodafone Qatar’s ‘8 Absolute Safety Rules’ and frontline wellbeing measures, aligning with internal standards and local regulations. The visit was designed to strengthen safety culture, promote proactive hazard and near-miss reporting, and spotlight the link between safe execution and network resilience during maintenance and upgrades.Al-Misnad said, “Health, safety, and employee well-being are fundamental to how we operate at Vodafone Qatar. The performance of our network and the trust of our customers rely on work that is carried out safely, consistently, and to the highest standard.”Boctor added: “By being present on site and engaging directly with our teams, we reinforce safe behaviours, understand the support they need to work effectively, and ensure that our safety practices reflect real operational requirements. This is how we protect our people, strengthen national connectivity, and uphold the values that guide our organisation.”The tour demonstrated executive ownership of health and safety, reinforced employee wellbeing, and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to providing safe, reliable service for its customers.For more information on Vodafone Qatar’s services and solutions, visit https://www.vodafone.qa/en/business/home. 

The National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), in co-operation with the General Secretariat of the Arab Network of National Human Rights Institutions and the UN Center for Training and Documentation in Human Rights for South-West Asia and the Arab Region, organised a talk in celebration of Human Rights Day.The talk aimed to highlight human rights as not merely slogans or rigid legal texts, but as the foundation of daily interaction between individuals and societies. It also reaffirmed that the defense of rights is a collective responsibility that requires integrated efforts between governments, institutions, and civil society, in addition to calling for the transformation of principles into practical policies that ensure a dignified life for every human being.In this context, His Excellency Vice-Chairman of the National Human Rights Committee Dr Mohammed bin Saif al-Kuwari said that this occasion marked a pivotal moment in modern human history. He said that today we witness an advanced level of awareness of the concept of human rights thanks to this universal document, and that the principle of equality has become a fundamental pillar of most international conventions and national constitutions. He noted that just over seven decades ago, the world viewed large segments of humanity as being of lesser value and dignity than others. He also emphasised that one cannot speak of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights without recalling the Arab contribution to it.He pointed out that the complex global challenges the world faces today, whether climate change, environmental degradation, digital transformation, terrorism, and armed conflicts, result in widespread violations of human rights. He stressed that addressing them requires collective international action that ensures that the fruits of scientific progress and development are shared by all humanity without discrimination.He reaffirmed that this global occasion has particular significance in Qatar, as it represents an opportunity to reiterate that human rights are not merely theoretical texts but a practical tool enabling individuals and societies to build a better future.He said that this year’s theme clearly aligns with Qatar’s Permanent Constitution, which emphasises the preservation of human dignity in many of its provisions, and that this principle is consistent with Sharia, the main source of legislation. He also highlighted the State’s commitment to implementing the human rights conventions to which it is a party. He said that the National Human Rights Committee plays a pivotal role in promoting a culture of human rights, drawing on the Islamic civilisational heritage grounded in justice, equality, noble ethics, and respect for human dignity. He noted that the Committee has made continuous efforts to raise awareness and to protect these rights, participated in numerous international forums, and achieved a distinguished global standing.He affirmed the continued work of the Committee across many areas, including education, health, labour, environment, and the rights of vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. He highlighted the Committee’s role in ensuring that no individual was deprived of their rights during key events and major activities hosted by Qatar in recent years, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and major sporting events.HE Secretary-General of the Arab Network of National Human Rights Institutions Sultan bin Hassan al-Jamali said the High Commissioner’s selection of this year’s theme was a clear call to rediscover the essence of human rights in the details of our daily lives, as these details form the basis for building the human dignity everyone seeks.In his speech during the event, he said that national human rights institutions play a pioneering role in transforming international commitments into tangible reality as they bridge the gap between the obligations undertaken by states and what citizens experience on a daily basis and serve as a living link between civil society and governments. 

Es'hailSat - Qatar Satellite Company - and Al Jazeera Media Network have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in satellite communication services, ground station infrastructure, and crisis and disaster management systems.The company said in a statement that the MoU will ensure the continuity of services and the enhancement of operations. It also reflects the desire of both parties to collaborate, exchange expertise, and assess future projects, exploring and opening new horizons in television and radio broadcasting, news gathering, and other supporting services.Deputy Director General of Al Jazeera Media Network, Ibrahim Abdulla Al Obaidli, said: "This memorandum represents an important stage in the Network's ongoing efforts to remain up to date with new innovations and emerging technologies in the sector. It is an additional step towards expanding Al Jazeera's broadcast reach and reinforcing its global presence".Al Obaidli added that the memorandum will contribute to further strengthening the existing cooperation between Al Jazeera Media Network and Es'hailSat in the field of satellite and terrestrial communications, ensuring continuity and reliability of services. He affirmed that Es'hailSat is a key partner of the Network.For his part, President and Chief Executive Officer of Es'hailSat, Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, said: "We are pleased to further strengthen our partnership with Al Jazeera, bringing together the technical expertise of Es'hailSat with the pioneering role of Al Jazeera Media Network in operating and managing television and satellite channels. We fully understand Al Jazeera's need for strategic infrastructure in ground stations, crisis management solutions, and business continuity systems. Our aim is to collaborate and support this initiative, not only to improve operational management, but also to enhance efficiency and resilience".

Katara Cultural Village has organised a Turkish cultural evening in collaboration with Katara-chaired Global Public Diplomacy Network (GPDNet), the Turkish embassy in Doha, and the Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Centre.A number of ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, an audience from the Turkish community, and lovers of oriental music in Qatar were in attendance.The evening, marking the Turkish Republic Day commemoration, featured interaction from the public, rejoicing to the cultural atmosphere, with Turkish singer Zehra Ozgelik performing heritage and contemporary song compositions that ranged from *muwashshahs to patriotic songs, reflecting the cultural identity of Turkiye and its artistic richness.Addressing the event, Turkish ambassador Dr Mehmet Mustafa Goksu said that everyone celebrates this day as Turkiye approaches its second centennial, at an event elevated by the distinguished presence and patriotic spirit of attendees, creating an unforgettable occasion.Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Centre (Doha) director Anwar Cidek highlighted that music is a global language that unifies peoples and brings cultures together.He noted that through its programmes, the centre strives to promote cultural exchange between Turkiye and Qatar.The evening is part of a series of joint cultural events that Katara holds with the Turkish embassy and the centre in Doha, manifesting the depth of historic and humanitarian ties between the Qatari and Turkish peoples, aiming to shore up bilateral cultural dialogue through arts and innovation. – QNA

The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) announced that its president, Dr Salem Al-Naemi, has been awarded the honorary title of ‘International Ambassador for Social Responsibility’ by the Regional Network for Social Responsibility.The recognition celebrates Dr Al-Naemi’s exceptional and longstanding contributions to social responsibility and sustainable development, both nationally and across the Arab region, a statement said. The Regional Network for Social Responsibility is a professional non-profit organisation with global memberships in leading international institutions such as the UN Global Compact, the International Rehabilitation Organisation, and the International Union for Social Responsibility.Dr Al-Naemi was selected for the honour in recognition of his impactful leadership in embedding social responsibility principles within every institution he has served, it was explained.“This recognition is a reflection of the collective effort at UDST to champion social responsibility and sustainability,” Dr Al-Naemi said. “As educators and leaders, it is our duty to integrate these values into our academic and community initiatives, inspiring others to contribute to the well-being and development of society,” he added.During the ceremony in Doha, Prof Dr Ali al-Ibrahim, vice-president of the Regional Network for Social Responsibility stated that Dr Al-Naemi embodies the model of an academic leader who believes that education is not merely the transfer of knowledge, but a mission to build individuals, advance communities, and strengthen values.“Under his leadership, the University of Doha for Science and Technology has become a beacon of innovation, integrating education, social responsibility, and sustainability. Its initiatives have significantly contributed to national development, youth empowerment, and capacity building in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.”The recognition is part of the Network’s International Ambassadors for Social Responsibility programme, launched in 2014 to honour distinguished figures from around the world who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing social responsibility.With this accolade, Dr Al-Naemi joins a select group of Arab and international leaders recognised for their influence, dedication, and leadership in promoting ethical, inclusive, and sustainable practices at both the national and global levels, the statement added.

An international conference on the protection of journalists in armed conflict zones began in Doha Wednesday.The conference is organised by the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) and Al Jazeera Public Liberties and Human Rights Centre (PLHRC) at Al Jazeera Media Network and in cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) and the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights.Inaugurated by HE NHRC Chairperson Maryam bint Abdullah al-Attiyah, the conference will discuss ways to enhance the protection of journalists and ensure their safety while covering conflicts, and to address the issue of impunity for crimes committed against them, with the participation of international officials, experts, and media professionals.In this context, HE al-Attiyah said that organizing this conference comes within the context of the NHRC closely monitoring the conditions of journalists in areas of armed conflict, in addition to its keenness to follow up on the implementation of the outcomes of the previous conferences, especially the recommendations of the first Doha Declaration, issued by the international conference for the protection of journalists in dangerous situation, held in January 2012.In her opening remarks, she added that while the NHRC is proud to note the reference to this declaration in numerous Human Rights Council resolutions, and welcomed the interpretation of a number of its recommendations into practical action, including the establishment of a unit dedicated to the safety of journalists within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the NHRC renews its determination through this conference to move forward in enhancing protection and establishing a safe and enabling environment for journalists.HE al-Attiyah emphasized that it is no longer acceptable to limit oneself to mere condemnation. The widening scope of crimes and serious violations against journalists points to the urgent need for broad action involving governments, national human rights institutions, and all stakeholders, along with UN agencies, to activate the rules of international law and implement comprehensive reforms to protection mechanisms. She said that the NHRC declares its commitment to following up on the implementation of the outcomes of this conference, in cooperation with various partners. The issue of protecting journalists will remain a top priority, in support of the truth and redress for victims.HE Director General of Al Jazeera Media Network Sheikh Nasser bin Faisal al-Thani said that while the blood of Al Jazeera journalists in the Gaza Strip has not yet dried in defence of the truth, the profession of journalism is facing tests that threaten its very existence and its humanitarian role.He added that Al Jazeera Media Network has made the protection and safety of its journalists a firm priority, developing specialized training programs for its crews working in conflict zones and ensuring the highest standards of professional safety. However, its correspondents have been targeted simply for carrying out their duties. The number of Al Jazeera martyrs has reached 22 so far, 10 of whom were killed during the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza.Addressing the International Conference on the Protection of Journalists in Armed Conflicts, HE Sheikh Nasser stressed that Al Jazeera Media Network calls for unifying initiatives and strengthening solidarity among media institutions, human rights organizations, and nations to halt the killing of journalists and end the policy of impunity for their murderers.Sheikh Nasser highlighted that Al Jazeera has been driving this cause forward for years, with a key milestone being the launch of the Doha Declaration on the Protection of Journalists in 2016, a document that received the endorsement of the Human Rights Council and Unesco and stands as the first international document propelled by a media institution for adoption within UN frameworks.Unesco Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information Dr. Tawfik Jelassi stated in a recorded broadcast during the opening session that free and independent media are an essential pillar of democracy, yet it is equally crucial to ensure the safety of journalists and media workers while performing their vital role.Journalists around the globe encounter threats, harassment, and censorship, and often lethal violence, while female journalists remain particularly vulnerable to harassment, both online and offline, Dr. Jelassi highlighted.Dr Jelassi emphasised that protecting journalists in conflict zones remains a top priority for Unesco, averring that Unesco has repeatedly condemned the killing of journalists in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, Yemen, and other conflict zones, and affirms that journalists are civilians who must be protected under Security Council Resolution 2222.In a recorded intervention, Commissioner at the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) and Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information, Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo emphasized that journalist protection is central to the African Commission's work, which closely monitors violations against journalists across Africa.The opening session concluded with a moment of silence honouring journalists who lost their lives in conflict zones worldwide, followed by the inauguration of a photo exhibition showcasing journalists' equipment and images of those martyred in Gaza and Iraq.

Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council, in collaboration with Qatar Airways, completed the 9th edition of the Corporate Innovation Leaders (CIL) training, the first-ever edition hosted exclusively for Qatar Airways employees.This four-day event took place at the Education City Golf Club, bringing together executives, strategists, and innovators under one roof to explore new frontiers in corporate innovation.As a key platform for thought leadership and collaboration, the CIL training is designed to create a dynamic network where corporate leaders can share insights, exchange best practices, and address the challenges of innovation within Qatar’s rapidly evolving business landscape.Now in its ninth iteration, the training plays an important role in promoting a culture of creativity and adaptability across local organisations, ensuring long-term competitiveness and resilience in the national economy.This year’s training marks a significant milestone as QRDI Council partners with Qatar Airways for a dedicated, employee-focused edition, a strategic move that underscores the growing importance of innovation at all levels of the organisation.The event concluded with a keynote address by guest speaker Stephanie Melodia, CEO of Bloom Ltd, from the United Kingdom, who shared her insights on innovation, leadership, and transformation in global markets.By empowering corporate leaders and employees with the tools, knowledge, and mindset needed to drive innovation, the CIL training directly supports the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly in fostering a knowledge-based economy.Through strategic collaboration, capacity-building, and the promotion of a culture of innovation, the training continues to contribute to the human, economic, and social development pillars of the national vision, helping to position Qatar as a hub for creativity, technological advancement, and sustainable growth on the global stage.

The Qatar Chamber has concluded a training program titled 'CSR Project Management Professional', with the participation of trainees from Qatar and several Arab countries. Organised in cooperation with the Regional Consulting Network, a member of the Regional CSR Network, the four-day program focused on enhancing participants' skills in managing CSR projects, drawing on the latest methodologies endorsed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Held in Arabic for the first time in the Arab region, the program was delivered by Dr Ali Al Ibrahim, a prominent CSR expert, who highlighted global best practices and effective approaches for implementing community projects that generate sustainable impact for organisations and society. For her part, Head of the Training Department at Qatar Chamber, Fatima Al Kuwari, said the program reflects the Chamber's commitment to developing national and Arab human capital and supporting the adoption of international best practices in CSR. She also noted that the specialised programs organised by the Chamber contribute to developing qualified human capital capable of supporting sustainable development and advancing community initiatives in Qatar and across the region.

Pearl GTL, the world’s largest gas-to-liquids facility, has been officially recognised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as a member of its prestigious Global Lighthouse Network. This milestone marks the first time a Qatari facility has received this honour, placing Pearl GTL among a select group of industrial sites globally that are leading the way in deploying Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies at scale.Pearl GTL is operated by Shell on behalf of the State of Qatar, represented by QatarEnergy., and this recognition reflects the strength of their long-standing partnership.The facility has delivered measurable improvements in reliability, emissions reduction, and operational efficiency through the deployment of over 45 advanced digital solutions, including AI-driven predictive analytics, digital twin platforms and real-time integrity monitoring.The site exemplifies how digital transformation can drive significant progress in operational excellence, cost efficiency, safety and environmental performance, demonstrating the tangible value of embracing next-generation technologies in large-scale industrial settings.QatarEnergy has played a pivotal role in enabling this transformation. Its strategic oversight and commitment to innovation have ensured that Pearl GTL not only meets but exceeds global benchmarks for sustainable energy production.In recent years, Shell has brought its digital innovation capabilities to the venture. Pearl GTL is the culmination of Shell’s global experience and digital transformation strategy, and it has been recognised internally as an aspirational asset, earning Shell’s Asset of the Year accolades two years in a row and Digital Asset of the Year in 2023.“This recognition marks a significant milestone for Pearl GTL and underscores the exceptional partnership between Shell and QatarEnergy,” said Rob Maxwell – Managing Director and Chairman of Shell Companies Qatar. “Being named to the Global Lighthouse Network demonstrates how the large-scale adoption of digital technologies can transform operational efficiency, reliability and environmental performance. This achievement shows what can be accomplished through the practical application of advanced innovation in the energy sector.”In recent years, Qatar has made significant progress in promoting and adopting advanced technologies across industries. In 2024, the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) in Qatar was established to support the acceleration of digital transformation and foster innovation across key sectors. Launched in collaboration the Ministry of Finance and the World Economic Forum, it serves as a platform for co-designing and piloting future-focused policy frameworks that enable the development and deployment of 4IR technologies in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.“At the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we congratulate QatarEnergy and Shell on their recognition as a Global Lighthouse Site,” said Dr. Abdulaziz Khalid Al-Ali – Director of C4IR Qatar. “This achievement exemplifies the transformative impact of digital innovation and strategic collaboration in advancing sustainable energy solutions in Qatar. Pearl GTL is an example of what can be accomplished when visionary leadership and cutting-edge technology come together. Not only does this milestone set new standards for industrial advancement, but it also reinforces the State of Qatar’s position as a regional and global leader in technological innovation and sustainable energy production.”As a leading asset within both Shell and Qatar, Pearl GTL stands at the forefront in applying Industry 4.0 technologies on a large scale, setting new benchmarks for technological advancement and innovation in the energy sector.Launched in 2018, the Global Lighthouse Network brings together and celebrates the success of the world’s leading industrial sites which achieved exceptional performance in productivity, supply chain resilience, customer centricity, sustainability and talent. This global community of influential innovators, deploying over 1,000 solutions in multiple industries, includes 201 sites, 27 of which have a distinction in sustainability. The network now spans over 30 countries and 35 sectors. Kiva Allgood, Managing Director and Head of the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains, World Economic Forum, said, “Congratulations to the new Lighthouse cohort that demonstrates how forward-thinking companies across industries and segments are putting this vision into action, setting a new global standard for operational excellence and impact.”

India plans to expand its high-speed road network fivefold within a decade, investing 11tn rupees ($125bn) to modernise infrastructure and slash logistics costs, people familiar with the matter said.The country will add 17,000 kilometres (10,563 miles) of access-controlled roads that allow motorists to travel at speeds of up to 120 kilometres per hour, offering faster, safer and more efficient connectivity than conventional highways, said the people, who asked not to be identified citing rules.Roughly 40% of the proposed network is already under construction and slated for completion before 2030, while work on the remaining corridors is expected to begin by 2028 and wrap up by 2033, the people said.India’s push mirrors efforts by other major economies to overhaul transport infrastructure and reduce logistics cost. China has built more than 180,000 kilometres of expressways since the 1990s, while the US maintains over 75,000 kilometres of interstate highways.As of March this year, India’s national highway network covered more than 146,000 kilometres, but only 4,500 kilometres meet high-speed standards, the people said.The Indian government wants to reduce logistics costs from 13% to 14% of the gross domestic product to about 8%, in line with global standards, consultancy Rubix Data Sciences Pvt said in a report last year. Although India’s expressway plan is relatively small in scale, it stands out for its ambitious timeline and reliance on a hybrid financing model to attract private capital.Projects offering returns of 15% or more will be bid out under the build-operate-transfer, or BOT, model, allowing private firms to recover costs through tolls, the people said. Those with lower projected returns will follow the Hybrid Annuity Model, under which the government covers 40% of construction costs upfront, they said.Most of the projects in various stages of construction are under the hybrid annuity model, but the government now hopes to see more private sector participation for the rest, the people said. Private interest in India’s road sector has been tepid in recent years.India’s Ministry for Road Transport and Highways and the government’s Press Information Bureau didn’t immediately respond to requests for comments.The country’s highway network is undergoing an upgrade led by the state-run National Highways Authority of India, which spent a record 2.5tn rupees on construction in the fiscal year ended March, up 21% from a year ago.For the year ending March 2026, the government has increased the budgeted allocation to 2.9tn rupees for roads and highways.Although interest in India’s roads sector has been uneven, the broader infrastructure space is drawing strong investor attention.Brookfield Asset Management Ltd, Blackstone Inc, Macquarie Group Ltd, and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board have all committed capital, while the Adani Group has announced plans to invest $18.4bn across infrastructure, including roads.The country could attract hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure investment over the next three years, driven by policy support, rising demand, and the scale of planned projects, according to Deloitte India estimates.

Al Jazeera Media Network has announced the appointment of Sheikh Nasser bin Faisal bin Khalifa al-Thani as its new director general, succeeding Dr Mostefa Souag, who has held the position for the past 12 years.Sheikh Nasser, a graduate of Qatar University, has worked at several organisations, including four years at Barwa Real Estate, a statement said Monday. In 2013, he moved to the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he held various roles, culminating in the rank of ambassador.Sheikh Nasser will lead the Network, which in recent years has achieved notable successes and accomplishments across various fields of media. Today, Al Jazeera stands among the world's leading media organisations, distinguished by its award-winning field coverage, programmes, and documentaries.This leadership transition comes as the Network seeks to enhance its strategy and operational framework to keep pace with developments in the media and news industry, and to maintain its position as a pioneer both regionally and globally, the statement added.