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Syria is joining the global coalition against the Islamic State group, a US official said Monday hours after President Donald Trump welcomed his Syrian counterpart Ahmed al-Sharaa for historic White House talks.Sharaa, whose forces ousted longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad late last year, was the first Syrian leader to visit the White House since the Middle Eastern country's independence in 1946.But the 43-year-old's landmark visit to the Oval Office came just days after Washington removed him from its terrorism list."During the visit, Syria announced that it is joining the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS," becoming the 90th member of the alliance and "partnering with the US to eliminate ISIS remnants and halt foreign fighter flows," a senior administration official said.According to the official, Syria will also be allowed to resume diplomatic relations with Washington "to further counterterrorism, security, and economic co-ordination." Trump said he wanted Syria to become "very successful" after more than a decade of civil war and added that he believed Sharaa "can do it, I really do." "He's a very strong leader. He comes from a very tough place, and he's a tough guy," Trump told reporters after the meeting, which was closed to press."People said he's had a rough past, we've all had rough pasts... And I think, frankly, if you didn't have a rough past, you wouldn't have a chance." Trump said Syria was a "big part" of his plan for a wider Middle East peace plan, which the US president is hoping will prop up the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza."Having a stable and successful Syria is very important to all countries in the Region," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform after the meeting.Despite this, Trump would not confirm reports that Syria would sign any non-aggression pact with Israel.Afterwards Sharaa was interviewed by broadcaster Fox News, saying Syria's ongoing dispute with Israel over the Golan Heights territory would make entering peace talks difficult now. But he suggested talks facilitated by Trump and Washington could help start negotiations.The Syrian president's visit capped a remarkable turnaround for a former fighter who once had a US bounty on his head.In dramatic scenes as he left his meeting with Trump, he climbed out of his motorcade to greet crowds of supporters outside the White House, surrounded on all sides by bodyguards.Syria's presidency said on X that Sharaa and Trump discussed the bilateral relationship, "the ways to strengthen and develop it, as well as a number of regional and international issues of common interest." It published photos of Trump standing and shaking hands with a smiling Sharaa beside the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office.Other pictures showed the Syrian leader sitting opposite Trump with top US officials including Vice President JD Vance, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth and top US military officer Dan Caine.Since taking power, Syria's new leaders have sought to break from their violent past and present a more moderate image to ordinary Syrians and foreign powers.Sharaa's White House visit is "a hugely symbolic moment for the country's new leader, who thus marks another step in his astonishing transformation from fighter to global statesman," said Michael Hanna, US programme director at the International Crisis Group.The Syrian met Trump for the first time in Saudi Arabia during the US leader's regional tour in May. At the time the 79-year-old Trump dubbed Sharaa, 43, as "a young, attractive guy." Sharaa was expected to seek US funds for Syria, which faces significant challenges in rebuilding after 13 years of devastating civil war.After his arrival in Washington, Sharaa over the weekend met with International Monetary Fund chief Kristalina Georgieva over possible aid.Sharaa's past has caused controversy in some quarters but the State Department's decision Friday to remove him from the blacklist was widely expected.The Syrian president has also been making diplomatic outreach towards Washington's rivals. He met Russian President Vladimir Putin in October in their first meeting since the removal of Assad, a key Kremlin ally.

QNB Group has announced a strategic partnership with TransferMate, the world’s leading provider of embedded B2B payments infrastructure as a service, to expand global receivables and local account solutions for QNB corporate customers worldwide. The partnership enables QNB, which is the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, to integrate TransferMate’s award-winning technology directly into its platform, providing corporate clients with access to a broader network of international multicurrency collections and local accounts capabilities. Through this collaboration, the bank’s customers will now be able to invoice and receive cross-border payments in multiple currencies, benefiting from reduced transaction times and fees, improved cash flow management and enhanced visibility and reconciliation. QNB Group constantly strives to provide its customers with new and innovative solutions to support their business needs. This platform enables them to receive international payments in multiple currencies seamlessly, which is considered is a game-changer for its clients. This marks TransferMate’s first banking partnership in the Middle East, capitalising on the strategic alliances the fintech has established with major financial institutions and global notable brands. The partnership marks a major milestone in QNB’s ongoing digital transformation journey and reinforces its position as a leader in delivering future-ready banking services.

Five Group Trading, a division of Al Rawabi Group of Companies, has announced the official launch of Dhathri Ayurveda in Qatar as its authorised dealer and distributor. Dhathri is also celebrating 25 years of Ayurvedic wellness with more than 1mn happy customers worldwide, a statement said. A grand celebration in this regard was held on Thursday at Rawabi Hypermarket, Izghawa. The inauguration ceremony was jointly led by Al Rawabi Group of Companies group general manager Kannu Baker, Dhathri director Dr Niranjana Sajikumar, export head Nadarajan S, and Five Group Trading’s business development manager Haris Usman, in the presence of heads of departments and managers from Al Rawabi Group, Five Group Trading, and Rawabi Hypermarket. Dhathri, renowned for its authentic Ayurvedic formulations, offers over 100 wellness and personal care products including shampoos, hair oils, hair creams, and skin care products – all formulated with natural ingredients. “Our goal is to make Dhathri’s authentic Ayurvedic products available across all major outlets in Qatar,” Baker said. “This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing world-class wellness and personal care products to our customers in Qatar.” “Our products are rooted in centuries-old traditions and refined through scientific innovation. Each Dhathri product is carefully researched and quality-assured to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety,” said Dr Sajikumar. A special free hair test (Tricho Test) will be conducted by Dhathri’s expert Ayurvedic consultants at a dedicated area in Rawabi Hypermarket. This initiative aims to help customers understand their hair and scalp condition and select suitable Dhathri products for healthier, stronger hair, the statement added.

HE the Minister of Finance, Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari met separately with President and Group CEO of Mizuho Financial Group, Masahiro Kihara, and Group Chairman of Standard Chartered, Maria Ramos. The meetings were held on the margin of the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, held in Washington, DC. Discussions during the meetings, dealt with a host of matters of mutual interest, particularly in the financial and economic fields, in addition to ways to expand efforts for bilateral co-operation. The meetings also explored areas of co-operation, and the most important economic, investment and trade developments.

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and DHL Global Forwarding, the global freight forwarding arm of DHL Group, have officially inaugurated the group's new logistics facility at Ras Bufontas Free Zone. The inauguration marks an important expansion of DHL's presence in the State of Qatar and reinforces Qatar's free zones status as a premier destination for global logistics operators, said QFZ in a press release on Saturday. CEO of QFZ, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al-Thani stated: "The inauguration of DHL Global Forwarding in Ras Bufontas Free Zone reflects a strategic step to reinforce Qatar's stature as a high-value logistics hub, reducing time to market and enhancing the supply chain flexibility across the region." "As a global logistics leader, DHL will improve the operational capacity, enhance specialized warehousing capabilities, and reinforce multimodal connectivity, benefitting from the proximity to Hamad International Airport, and creating an attractive footprint for partners and suppliers across various economic sectors. This investment will also drive our transition from a transit hub to an integrated solutions platform supported by a flexible regulatory framework and advanced digital infrastructure, ensuring new growth prospects and connecting the region to markets in Africa and Asia," His Excellency added. For his part, CEO - Gulf Cluster, DHL Global Forwarding, Samer Kaissi said: "Qatar plays a key role in our regional logistics strategy, particularly as we expand our multimodal capabilities across the GCC. Hamad Port has long been a vital part of our network, supporting east-west trade flows." "Thanks to our collaboration with the Qatar Free Zones Authority, we now also benefit from improved connectivity to the Hamad International Airport: With our new facility in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, located close to the airport, we are enhancing our airfreight capabilities, which enables us to deliver even more resilient and scalable logistics solutions, especially for the growing GCC-Africa corridors." The new DHL Global Forwarding facility spans more than 1,200 square meters and will serve as a regional distribution warehouse specializing in air freight consolidation services, supporting both regional and global distribution networks. Strategically located close to Hamad International Airport, the facility is ideally positioned to capitalize on Qatar's world-class transport infrastructure and streamlined customs processing. Qatar Free Zones Authority remains committed to accelerating Qatar's logistics growth and enabling strategic investment that aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, positioning the state as a hub for sustainable, innovation-led industrial activity.

QNB Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Qatar Association of Certified Public Accountants (QACPA) to establish a collaborative framework aimed at advancing professional knowledge and skills of its employees in Qatar and across its international network. Signed by Abdullah Nasser Al Khalifa, Senior Executive Vice President - Group Human Capital at QNB Group, and Dr. Hashim Al-Sayed, Chairman of QACPA, said the agreement seeks to promote cooperation in accounting, auditing, governance, anti-money laundering, and compliance. The agreement reflects both institutions' commitment to fostering knowledge exchange, innovation, and capacity-building to empower the national workforce in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy. It also comes within the bank's strategy to maintain high standards of integrity through a corporate governance framework that promotes transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct, supported by strong internal controls and compliance with international best practices. Further strengthening bilateral collaboration, the MoU includes provisions for certified professional training programs and workshops designed to equip QNB employees with knowledge and skills in accounting, finance, and business management, to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while promoting a culture of responsible business. Through this MoU, QNB and QACPA will engage in joint initiatives such as academic research and competitions to support innovation in banking, professional development and knowledge-sharing.

His Excellency Governor of Qatar Central Bank and Chairman of Qatar Investment Authority, Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al-Thani met with Chairman of Citigroup, John Dugan and Chairman of Euroclear Group, Francesco Vanni d'Archirafi on the sidelines of the 2025 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) held in Washington DC in the United States of America from 13 to 18 October 2025. During the meetings, they reviewed the latest global developments in banking and finance.

beIN Media Group (beIN), one of the leading sports and entertainment media networks in the world, has announced a strategic partnership with Rafeeq, one of Qatar’s leading delivery and e-commerce platforms. The collaboration aims to provide customers with a fast, seamless, and convenient way to access beIN’s world-class sports and entertainment content.Through the partnership, Rafeeq users can now purchase beIN receivers directly through the Rafeeq app, with delivery straight to their doorstep. Once received, customers can simply call 133 to activate their preferred beIN package and instantly enjoy a world of premium entertainment, from Hollywood blockbusters to the most anticipated live sports, including top European football leagues, Formula 1, the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, the build-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026, as well as major tennis and basketball tournaments and more.To mark the occasion, a signing ceremony was held at beIN’s MENA Headquarters in Doha. The event was attended by Hamad Aljaber, Manager of Consumer Sales at beIN, and Ahmed Abdulla, Media Manager at Rafeeq, who officially signed the agreement, along with senior managers from both organisations.Commenting on the partnership, Hamad Aljaber, Manager of Consumer Sales at beIN, said: “We are delighted to partner with Rafeeq, a trusted and fast-growing Qatari brand. This collaboration enhances accessibility for our customers, allowing them to experience beIN’s premium content more easily than ever through Rafeeq’s reliable and innovative delivery ecosystem.”Ahmed Abdulla, Media Manager at Rafeeq, added: At Rafeeq, we are proud to partner with beIN, one of the most recognised media networks in the world. This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding the range of essential and lifestyle services available through the Rafeeq app. By offering beIN receivers directly to our customers, we’re making premium sports and entertainment content more accessible than ever to households across Qatar — all through the convenience of Rafeeq’s trusted delivery ecosystem.”As part of the agreement, beIN and Rafeeq will also collaborate on exclusive offers and promotional campaigns designed to reward customers and enhance their viewing experience.To learn more and purchase the beIN receiver, the Rafeeq app, available on iOS and Android, may be downloaded.

Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Finance, has signed an agreement with the World Bank Group to establish an office that will serve Qatar and support the wider region. This initiative comes within the framework of strengthening bilateral co-operation and supporting economic development efforts across the region. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, now being held in Washington, DC. “This agreement reflects Qatar’s commitment to deepening its international partnerships with leading financial institutions and accelerating the implementation of sustainable development programmes adopted by the country, in line with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030,” the Ministry of Finance said in a release. The establishment of the World Bank office in Qatar provides an advanced platform for the exchange of technical and financial expertise with institutions and multilateral organisations. This new partnership also highlights Qatar’s status as a leading regional hub for economic and financial development, reaffirming its commitment to open and effective international cooperation in pursuit of inclusive and sustainable growth.

His Excellency the Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari participated in the meeting of Arab Finance Ministers, alongside Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group and several finance ministers.The meeting was held on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, now taking place in Washington, DC. The meeting comes as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation with international financial institutions, exchange views on global economic developments, and explore opportunities to support financial stability and promote sustainable growth in the region.It aims to highlight the achievements of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in addressing global and regional priorities, and explore opportunities for cooperation across several actionable economic and financial sectors – contributing to the empowerment of both regional and global economic growth.The meeting also shed light on the attractiveness of the investment environment in GCC countries and the creation of high-quality opportunities across various sectors. In addition, it addressed the economic and development policies expected to be adopted as part of joint GCC efforts in the coming phase.

Alfardan Automobiles, the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in Qatar, has announced the arrival of the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 in Qatar.Marking the only unit available in Qatar and one of just 92 produced globally, the model highlights BMW’s dedication to performance, craftsmanship, and rarity while paying tribute to the legendary Valentino Rossi.The BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 has been created as a celebration of Rossi’s remarkable motorsport legacy, with his iconic racing number “46” and signature details featured prominently on the car.Distinctive design highlights include bold yellow accents across the grille, brake calipers and wheels, along with exclusive VR46 badging and bespoke finishes that make this model instantly recognisable to enthusiasts and collectors alike.Beneath its striking exterior, the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 is equipped by M’s renowned engineering, blending sheer driving performance with precision dynamics that bring motorsport passion to the road.Every detail has been carefully considered to create a car that is as exhilarating to drive as it is rare to own.Globally, production has been capped at just 92 cars, with 46 available in each of two striking colour variants.The model for Qatar comes in Frozen Tanzanite Blue, a shade that perfectly complements the yellow exterior details and carbon-fibre elements, while further underlining the car’s exclusivity within the local market.The car is equipped with a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder M TwinPower Turbo engine, producing 550 horsepower, enabling it to sprint from 0-100kph in just 3.4 seconds.With a top speed of 302kph, adaptive M suspension, M Carbon ceramic brakes, and an exhaust system tuned for both sound and performance, the model delivers the ultimate BMW M driving experience, whether on the racetrack or Qatar’s open highways.“The arrival of the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 in Qatar is an exciting moment, and we are immensely proud to welcome this one-of-a-kind model to our market,” said Alfardan Automobiles general manager Ayman Berjawi.“With only 92 cars worldwide, and just a single unit here in Qatar, this edition captures the essence of exclusivity, while celebrating the spirit of Valentino Rossi and the craftsmanship of BMW M,” he said. “For our customers and motorsport enthusiasts, it represents a unique opportunity to connect with racing heritage through a car that is truly extraordinary.”

Al Abdulghani Motors signed a partnership agreement with Petrolube Group to become the exclusive distributor of Petromin lubricants in Qatar.The agreement was signed by Abdo Sweidan, Chief Operating Officer of Al Abdulghani Motors and Clint Nickall, CEO of International Business from Petrolube Group, in the presence of senior executives and distinguished guests.This partnership aligns with Al Abdulghani Motors’ strategy to provide integrated mobility solutions and enhance its transport services in Qatar by building strategic collaborations with leading regional and global partners.Through its collaboration with Petrolube Group, one of the largest subsidiaries of Petromin Corporation with more than six decades of industrial expertise, Al Abdulghani Motors will introduce a comprehensive range of high-performance lubricants, renowned for their advanced formulations and exceptional quality.The partnership responds to growing customer demand for reliable products that maintain engine performance under various operating conditions, reinforcing Al Abdulghani Motors’ ongoing commitment to delivering smart and sustainable automotive solutions.Speaking at the launch event, Sweidan said: “We are pleased to announce our partnership with Petrolube Group. This collaboration reinforces our dedication to the Best-in-Town philosophy, creating partnerships that embody excellence, innovation, and customer-centricity, while continuing to deliver state-of-the-art mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of the Qatari market.”Nickall said: “We are delighted to announce the formalisation of our partnership with Al Abdulghani Motors — a collaboration between two leading players in their respective markets, each with extensive experience in the automotive industry and a wide range of service offerings. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to delivering excellence and innovation and sets the stage for creating many success stories by providing top-tier products, quality, and services to the market.”Established in Qatar in 1958, Al Abdulghani Motors has grown to become one of the country’s most trusted automotive leaders, delivering comprehensive and innovative mobility solutions that include new and certified pre-owned vehicle sales, car rentals, heavy equipment, and advanced after-sales services.Founded in 1968 by royal decree as a joint venture between Saudi Aramco and ExxonMobil, Petrolube began its journey manufacturing lubricants and greases. Over the years, the company has grown significantly to become one of the region’s leading manufacturers, marketers, and distributors of lubricants.Today, Petrolube is a fully integrated provider of automotive solutions and services, operating across the Middle East, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, with a strong presence in more than 40 countries, producing over 250 different Petromin lubricants.As part of this partnership, Al Abdulghani Motors is building an extensive distribution network to ensure Petromin lubricants are available through all resellers across Qatar, aiming to meet the rising demand for high-performance lubricants and support the market with trusted maintenance solutions.