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The President of the Republic of Iraq Dr. Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, arrived in Doha Monday to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD), hosted by the State of Qatar from November 4 to 6.Upon his arrival at Hamad International Airport, Dr. Rashid and his accompanying delegation were welcomed by HE Director of the Protocol Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the State of Qatar. Mohammed Jaafar Al Sadr.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, arrived in Doha on Monday 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 HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the UN, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani.

The Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF) on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the International Disability Alliance (IDA). The MoU aims to enhance collaboration in the field of supporting and empowering persons with disabilities.The signing took place on the margins of the preparatory events for the Global Disability Summit 2028, held at Multaqa (Education City Student Center) of Qatar Foundation, under the theme: from commitments to change: the journey toward Doha. HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi said the signing of the MoU comes as part of the State of Qatar's enduring commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and enabling their full participation across all spheres of life.The memorandum intends to support persons with disabilities, hone their skills, and safeguard their dignity and autonomy, in addition to strengthening programs and initiatives that foster their access to employment opportunities, healthcare, and community participation, al-Nuaimi highlighted.Al-Nuaimi explained that the move aligns with the MSDF's vision of building an inclusive society founded on dynamic national and international partnerships.She announced that the State of Qatar will host the fourth Global Disability Summit 2028 in Doha, noting that this hosting will build upon the achievements realized through cooperation with regional and global partners. For his part, President of IDA and President of the Arab Organization of Persons with Disabilities (AOPD), Dr Nawaf Kabbara, affirmed that this partnership represents a phenomenal model of international cooperation that can contribute to advancing the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities worldwide.He commended the leading role assumed by Qatar in this domain, noting that his visits to several institutions concerned with persons with disabilities in Qatar revealed advanced experiences and exemplary practices that reaffirm the nation's steadfast commitment to promoting inclusion and meaningful participation of this group, emphasizing that Qatar has emerged as a regional and global role model.He added that the national efforts in Qatar embody dynamic leadership and a genuine desire to ensure that persons with disabilities are partners in development and prosperity, noting that this approach serves as an inspiring model for many countries and international organizations.Dr. Kabbara, in his capacity as President of AOPD, touted the progress materialized across the Arab region in empowering persons with disabilities, emphasizing that such strides reinforce the prospects for achieving inclusive and sustainable development on both the national and regional stages.The program of the event, which brought together international and regional officials and experts, featured a series of panel discussions and specialized workshops, most notably a session on global horizons: from Berlin to Amman 2025, a session on innovation in inclusion, and a workshop on the invisible majority: bridging the disability data gap. The program also included specialized workshops titled: from disability to participation and integrating children with disabilities, organized in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Unicef program.

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.

More than 700 students took part in Qatar Career Development Center's (QCDC) 'Little Employee' initiative during this week's school mid-term break, joining their parents and relatives at workplaces across the country, Qatar Career Development Centre (QCDC) has announced in a statement.Organised by QCDC, founded by Qatar Foundation (QF), 'Little Employee' enables children aged 7-15 to spend a full working day in real-world environments alongside parental role models.This initiative builds early career awareness and strengthening family engagement in career conversations. It is designed with flexible scheduling, allowing families and institutions to make the most of both school breaks and regular workdays.This week's surge signals national momentum to use school breaks for structured career exploration, building curiosity, transferable skills, and early informed choices in support of Qatar's human-capital agenda. After engaging 500 children in 2024, participation has more than doubled in 2025, reflecting stronger public and institutional recognition of the initiative's value."This week's turnout shows what is possible when families, institutions, and the wider community invest in our children," said Saad Abdulla al-Kharji, Executive Director of QCDC. "By opening their doors during the mid-term break, partners across government, media, finance, education, and civil society provided meaningful, age-appropriate exposure to the world of work. They are helping turn education into competence and build a future-ready workforce aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. We thank all participating entities for championing early career development and community partnership," he added.Now in its fifth edition, 'Little Employee' offers streamlined pathways for families and employers. QCDC provides interactive workshops and step-by-step guides to structure the day and embed the initiative into CSR and youth-engagement plans. QCDC calls on companies, government and semi-government entities, and NGOs to host additional days this period and in upcoming breaks.Organizations and parents/guardians can enroll children by visiting QCDC's official website.

Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN, HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, has affirmed that the Second World Summit for Social Development, to be held in Doha, marks the first official meeting of the UN General Assembly to convene outside its traditional venues in New York and Geneva, in accordance with the Assembly's rules of procedure.In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), HE Sheikha Alya said that hosting this historic summit in Doha underscores Qatar's position as an active and strategic partner of the UN, adding that in just a few days, Doha will once again open its doors to the world, guided by its unwavering commitment to international solidarity and multilateral co-operation.She emphasised that Qatar welcomes the international community back to Doha, a city that has become a global symbol of dialogue, partnership, and hope.She recalled that Qatar has previously hosted a series of landmark UN conferences, including the 2008 Follow-up International Conference on Financing for Development to Review the Implementation of the Monterrey Consensus, the 18th Conference of the Parties (COP18) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2012, the 13th UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD XIII), and the 5th UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5) in 2023 — all united by the shared goal of promoting prosperity and achieving sustainable development for all.HE Sheikha Alya noted that the world returns to Doha to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development, which will be held from Nov 4 to 6, marking a pivotal moment to renew the commitments first made in Copenhagen three decades ago and to set forth bold visions and practical solutions for advancing social development.She highlighted that the summit will bring together more than 8,000 participants representing Member States, the UN system, and key stakeholders — including parliamentarians, civil society organisations, youth, academia, and representatives of workers, employers, and the private sector — all united in reaffirming their commitment to social justice and translating that commitment into concrete actions that place people at the heart of sustainable development.She underlined that at the heart of this historic summit lies the "Doha Political Declaration," a global call to action that renews governments' commitment to creating an enabling economic, political, social, cultural, and legal environment for achieving inclusive social development for all.She further pointed out that several key events will take place during the summit, leveraging this global gathering, most notably, the inaugural meeting of the "Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty." The summit will also witness a significant milestone with the convening of the "Doha Solutions Forum for Social Development," which represents a turning point toward adopting innovative and practical initiatives. The forum will be held alongside two major events — the Private Sector Forum and the Civil Society Forum — in addition to a wide range of activities taking place at the state-of-the-art Qatar National Convention Centre.HE Sheikha Alya emphasised that Doha is once again establishing itself as a beacon of global solidarity, where commitments transform into inspiration and partnerships become a driving force for progress, embodying a shared vision of an inclusive and sustainable future of peace and prosperity for all.

Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), Education Above All (EAA), and King's Trust International (KTI) have signed an agreement to tackle global youth unemployment and empower young people worldwide, with the aim of reaching over 51,000 youth.In a statement, QFFD said that the signing ceremony, held on the sidelines of King's Trust International's 10th anniversary celebrations in London, and was signed by Fahad Hamad al-Sulaiti, Director General of QFFD, Mohammed Saad al-Kubaisi, Chief Executive Officer of Education Above All Foundation and Will Straw, Chief Executive Officer of King's Trust International.This partnership, with QFFD as a principal benefactor, will advance KTI's Generation Potential campaign and expand the reach of programmes across Pakistan, Jordan, Nigeria, Ghana and the Caribbean, focusing on promoting youth empowerment, economic inclusion, and gender equality.These efforts aim to equip the next generation with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in an increasingly complex job market, while placing a particular emphasis on youth in fragile and underserved communities, especially young women and marginalised groups, empowering them to play an active role in driving sustainable development and building resilient, inclusive societies.Fahad Hamad al-Sulaiti, Director General of QFFD, stated: "At the heart of our mission at QFFD lies a deep belief in the potential of young people to shape a better and more sustainable future for all. Through this partnership, we are investing in youth as catalysts of development, equipping them with the tools and opportunities to lead positive change within their communities. Empowering youth is an investment in peace, prosperity, and shared humanity, and together we are reaffirming our collective commitment to ensure that no young person is left behind."Mohammed al-Kubaisi, CEO of EAA Foundation, said: "At Education Above All Foundation, we believe that empowering youth with the skills and knowledge to navigate the green economy is fundamental to achieving sustainable development. With the support of our strategic partner, Qatar Fund for Development, and through our collaboration with The King's Trust International, we are creating opportunities that not only transform individual lives but also drive collective action toward a more equitable and resilient world."Will Straw, Chief Executive of King's Trust International, added: "We are deeply grateful to Qatar Fund for Development for their visionary support. This partnership enables us to reach more young people than ever before, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and support they need to shape their own futures. Young people today face enormous challenges, from economic instability to the climate crisis. But they also represent our greatest hope. Through this partnership with QFFD, we are not only investing in their potential but are amplifying their voices, unlocking their talents, and standing alongside them as they build a better future for us all."This partnership reflects the enduring bilateral relations and shared vision between Qatar and the United Kingdom, united in their commitment to advancing human development, fostering social inclusion, and expanding economic opportunity, thereby contributing to a more equitable and sustainable global future.

The State of Qatar emphasized the importance of the international community continuing to intensify its efforts to enhance cybersecurity and expand avenues of cooperation, particularly between developed and developing countries, in order to ensure the utilization and preservation of digital gains. Qatar stressed that cyberspace and its related uses provide vast opportunities for promoting economic development and achieving human well-being. This came in the State of Qatar's statement delivered by Second Secretary of the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani before the UN General Assembly's First Committee at its 80th session on Other Disarmament Measures and International Security, held at UN headquarters in New York. Sheikh Abdulrahman explained that progress in the digital and technological fields has offered smart and low-cost solutions to many development-related issues, while also enhancing social communication through modern and advanced networks. He noted that while such progress offers wide-ranging opportunities in various areas of technology, it also brings increasing cybersecurity risks, which now pose threats to all forms of digital activity — including attacks targeting vital telecommunications and digital infrastructure, resulting in serious material and moral damage, privacy violations, and obstacles to economic development efforts. He added that information security and cybersecurity have become major concerns for the international community — particularly for governments, public institutions, banks, financial bodies, and private sector entities. He pointed out that growing global awareness of these threats led to the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, which Qatar signed during the official ceremony held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on Oct. 25, 2025. He further added that, as part of its efforts to exchange expertise and knowledge in the field of information and communications technology at both regional and international levels, the State of Qatar has continued its active participation in the meetings of the Open-ended Working Group on the Security of Information and Communication Technology (2021-2025), whose work concluded in July 2025, pointing out that the State of Qatar welcomed the group's consensus-adopted final report, expressing hope that its recommendations would be implemented to strengthen cybersecurity and international cooperation in the safe use of ICTs - including the future permanent mechanism on ICT security in the context of international security. He also noted that, reaffirming the State of Qatar's commitment to promoting responsible behavior in cyberspace, the National Cyber Security Agency organized a side event titled "Qatar's Successful Experience in Implementing the UN Norms for Responsible State Behavior in Cyberspace" on July 7, 2025, during the Eleventh Substantive Session of the Open-Ended Working Group. The event, he said, aimed to highlight Qatar's successful model in adopting UN cybersecurity standards through its achievements and implemented initiatives. The Second Secretary of the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani, referred to Qatar's participation in the Fourth Meeting of the GCC Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity, held on Sept. 8, 2025, in the sisterly State of Kuwait, during which the execution plan for the GCC Cybersecurity Strategy, as well as the framework for international cooperation among GCC member states in the field of cybersecurity were approved.

The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) today announced a new partnership with WHOOP, the human performance company. Invest Qatar will support WHOOP in expanding its business footprint in Qatar and throughout the broader Gulf region by establishing its first international performance lab in Msheireb Downtown Doha, strengthening the country's position as a hub for performance science and innovation.This strategic collaboration is set to accelerate technology-driven growth, foster innovation and advance research and development.Modelled after WHOOP Labs Boston, the company's flagship performance science centre at its company headquarters in Boston, USA, WHOOP Labs Doha will advance the company's mission to unlock human performance and healthspan through cutting-edge research and data collection. The facility will also enable partnerships with local institutions for sport performance research, enriching both the company's endeavours and the local research landscape.WHOOP Labs Doha will be located in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world's first fully built smart and sustainable city district. Known for its sustainable design, advanced infrastructure and advanced connectivity, Msheireb Downtown Doha offers an ideal environment for innovation and collaboration. Its integrated ecosystem supports high-tech ventures and provides access to a vibrant community of startups, innovators and entrepreneurs. The district's commitment to digital transformation and smart living aligns seamlessly with the company's ambition to advance human performance through technology.Additionally, Invest Qatar and WHOOP will undertake joint efforts to attract and cultivate local talent through the new hub.CEO of Invest Qatar, Sheikh Ali bin Alwaleed Al-Thani, said: "Qatar has made significant strides in its pursuit to foster and accelerate a knowledge-based, tech-driven economy.""Our new partnership with WHOOP marks another remarkable stride in this journey. With Qatar's business-friendly ecosystem and unwavering support from ambitious investors, we are confident that WHOOP will play a pivotal role in advancing sports tech and research in our nation," he added.CEO of Msheireb Properties Eng. Ali Al Kuwari said: "Msheireb Downtown Doha was purpose-built to attract pioneering companies that drive innovation forward. As Qatar's first fully integrated smart and sustainable city district, we provide the infrastructure, connectivity and collaborative environment that enable global technology leaders like WHOOP to advance their research and development."This partnership reinforces our positioning as a hub for innovation in health, wellness and human performance, whilst supporting Qatar's ambition to build a knowledge-based economy," he added."WHOOP is proud to expand our footprint in Qatar and across the Gulf," said Will Ahmed, Founder and CEO of WHOOP. "Qatar has quickly become one of our most dynamic and fastest-growing markets, with a community that deeply values performance, recovery and longevity. Our new performance lab in Msheireb Downtown Doha will be a destination for innovation, welcoming visitors, advancing research and accelerating our mission to unlock human potential and extend healthspan."Qatar continues to position itself as a leading destination for innovation, research and technological advancement. With world-class infrastructure, a thriving startup ecosystem and strong government support for digital transformation, the country offers fertile ground for tech companies seeking to scale and innovate. Strategic investments in smart cities like Msheireb, cutting-edge research institutions and sector-specific incubators and accelerators have created an environment where ideas and global partnerships flourish.

Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has completed a multi-specialisation medical convoy in Guyana, funded by Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD).During the seven-day mission, the volunteering medical team from Hamad Medical Corporation and Sidra Medicine examined a total of 140 patients and performed 48 major surgeries, in light of the needs specified by the Ministry of Health, as follows: 16 cardiac catheterisations, 13 cancer surgeries, four paediatric gastrointestinal surgeries, and 15 urology surgeries.Apart from the medical team, there was a delegation from QFFD and QRCS, headed by Mohamed Ahmed al-Beshri, assistant secretary-general, Communication and Resource Development at QRCS. Members of the delegation included Dr Izzadeen Gaffar, coordinator, Medical Convoys Project at QRCS and Yousef al-Mulla, acting director of Humanitarian Aid Department at QFFD. They were received by Mohamed Ibrahim al-Rumaihi, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Qatar in Guyana, who helped facilitate the delegation’s mission and coordinate with local authorities.Two training workshops were delivered by the gynaecology and urology consultants for 38 local doctors. In addition, 30 medical professionals received on-the-job training during the procedures,Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation was supported with the medical supplies and equipment needed for cardiac catheterisation and specialised surgeries, helping upgrade the hospital’s resources and ensure continued services following the end of mission.Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, held a special reception for the Qatari delegation, in the presence of al-Rumaihi. He praised Qatar’s support for his country during the Covid-19 pandemic, through the deployment of a fully equipped field hospital and the provision of ventilators and vaccines.

His Excellency Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari met with the President of the Islamic Development Bank Group Dr Mohammed bin Sulaiman Al Jasser, on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group in Washington, D.C. During the meeting, the relations between the two parties were reviewed, along with prospects for enhancing and developing them in key shared investment and financial sectors, in addition to discussing a number of topics of mutual interest. HE Minister of Finance also met with Chief Executive Officer of Deutsche Bank, Christian Sewing, on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group. During the meeting, a number of topics related to shared interests were discussed, with a focus on financial and economic matters.

Syrian Minister of Finance Dr. Mohammed Yisr Barniehآ said that the recent Qatari-Saudi $89 million support to enable the payment of salaries for government employees, represents a continuation of the generous fraternal support provided by the State of Qatar, in partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to Syria's people and its institutions. He affirmed that this support reflects the deep fraternal relations between the two countries and demonstrates Qatar's firm commitment to backing Syria in its path toward reconstruction and development.In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), he expressed the Syrian government's sincere appreciation and gratitude to the State of Qatar for its ongoing and valued support across various fields. He pointed out that this support had a tangible positive impact during and after the Syrian crisis by strengthening national institutions and supporting the development process.He explained that the Qatari-Saudi grant came at a critical stage, highlighted by Qatar's active contributions to energy and electricity projects that will help improve vital services and ensure their continuity, as these are fundamental pillars for economic growth and sustainable development. This is alongside Qatar's investments in infrastructure projects that support the Syrian economy, he added.The State of Qatar's support, alongside Saudi Arabia, to help cover wage and salary expenses extends their previously well-recognized role, helping the Syrian government in advancing its plan to reform the wage system and close the arrears file with the World Bank, he said, noting that this reflects the State of Qatar's consistent keenness to support the Syrian state efforts to achieve economic recovery and restore the path of sustainable development.The Syrian Minister of Finance confirmed that this generous support embodies the depth of fraternal relations between Syria and Qatar and affirms Doha's firm commitment to supporting Syria on its journey toward comprehensive reconstruction and development.He pointed out that the grant is an important step in supporting the wage and salary system in Syria and contributing to improving the living standards of public sector employees. He explained that this initiative is a continuation of previous grants that helped enhance the stability of public services and alleviate the living burdens on employees and citizens, while also directly supporting the governmentط·s efforts to implement wage system reforms.In his interview with QNA, he noted that the grant will gradually cover about 17 percent of the wage bill for non-military employees, a significant percentage that will enable the government to continue its economic, financial, and social reform program, positively impacting citizens' livelihoods and the stability of state institutions' performance.The Syrian government, he said, is grateful to its brothers in the State of Qatar for their constant support of Syria in regional and international forums and their readiness to provide expertise, knowledge, and technical advice in financial reform areas.He also emphasised that Syria seeks to build on the continuous Qatari-Saudi support to expand cooperation areas in the upcoming phase by developing comprehensive strategic partnerships with sisterly and friendly countries. This, he said, aims to enhance opportunities for economic and social development, attract investments, and improve the quality of basic services. He clarified that the fraternal cooperation with Qatar and Saudi Arabia is especially important in supporting vital sectors, developing economic policies, and transferring institutional expertise, knowledge, and technologies, thereby contributing to supporting institutional reform in Syria, activating the Syrian economy, and improving the overall and sustainable standard of living.In September, an $89 million joint grant from Qatar and Saudi Arabia was announced to support the salaries of public sector employees in the Syrian Arab Republic. This funding also aims to enhance the stability of essential public services. The initiative was launched by the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aiming to support the Syrian government's efforts to implement financial and economic reforms and improve living standards for civil sector employees within the national recovery program.