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Thursday, June 04, 2026 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "Public" (69 articles)

Gulf Times
Qatar

Ashghal completes main works of TSE Seasonal Storage Lagoons project - Phase 1

The Public Works Authority 'Ashghal' has announced the completion of main works for the Design and Build Project for the TSE Seasonal Storage Lagoons - Phase 1. The project comes as part of the Authority's efforts to promote environmental sustainability and make optimal use of treated water and renewable water resources, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.The project engineer from the Drainage Networks Projects Department at Ashghal Eng. Waled al-Ghoul stated that the first phase of the project included the construction of five reservoirs (lagoons) with a total storage capacity of 22.5mn cubic metres, in addition to an evaporation pond with a capacity of 8.7mn cubic meters.He added that these reservoirs will be supplied with treated water from the Doha South Sewage Treatment Plant through the rising main (D-Line). Eng. Waled al-Ghoul explained that the project aims to balance the usage of treated water quantities produced throughout the year.Surplus water is stored during the winter season for reuse during the summer months when demand for treated water increases for irrigating green spaces, ornamental plants in public parks and along roads, and for supplying fodder farms.The treated water can also be used in cooling systems and dust control at work sites. Eng. Waled emphasised Ashghal's commitment to implementing construction practices that contribute to enhancing environmental sustainability within the project. More than 8mn cubic metres of recycled excavation materials were reused to construct the storage lagoons, thus reducing resource waste.The project also contributes to providing an attractive natural environment for migratory birds such as pink flamingos, plovers, and other wild birds. The project included the construction of a 6km access road and a 25 km-long internal road network.A total of 8km of water pipelines were also laid, including the necessary hydraulic components for supplying the reservoirs and transporting water between them. In addition, 8 buildings were constructed for operation and maintenance, along with electrical substations and other facilities.It is worth noting that Ashghal achieved 10mn man-hours without a lost-time injury (LTI) during the implementation of the first phase of the project, which included deep excavation works carried out at depths of up to 10 metres below the ground, thanks to the authority’s keenness to apply the highest standards of occupational safety and health in all stages of implementation.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Medicare opens

His Excellency the Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad al-Mahmoud inaugurated the second edition of Qatar’s International Healthcare and Medical Exhibition and Conference (Qatar Medicare). Qatar Medicare brings together 100 local and international companies under one roof, 64 local and 36 international exhibitors.Organised by IFP Qatar in collaboration with Qatar Chamber (QC) and held under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Health, the event continues until Thursday, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC).Chair of the Health Committee at Qatar Chamber Ibtihaj al-Ahmadani said: “The Qatar Chamber is committed to achieving self-sufficiency in the medical and pharmaceutical sectors. Qatar Medicare reflects the strong public-private collaboration driving Qatar’s healthcare landscape.”According to estimates by Fitch Solutions, a subsidiary of Fitch Ratings, Qatar’s healthcare sector is projected to experience accelerated growth, with total health expenditure expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate of 14% by 2029, reaching $11.5bn (QR41.86bn).This expansion is set to position Qatar as the third-largest healthcare market in the GCC and the tenth-largest in the Mena region.Commercial and Operations Director at IFP Qatar Hayat Bayan commented: “Qatar Medicare includes daily one-on-one meetings between exhibitors, visitors, and major hospitals from both the public and private sectors, in addition to panel discussions and workshops featuring more than 55 speakers, 25 presentations, five dialogue sessions, four workshops, training sessions, and an Open Stage segment that allows professionals two minutes each to share their work and expertise. The event will conclude with the Qatar Medicare 2025 Healthcare Excellence Awards, honouring 15 categories of outstanding healthcare institutions and individuals.”Dr Hadi Mohamad Abu Rasheed, Scientific Advisor at Qatar Cancer Society and member of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the International Cancer Patients Alliance, emphasised: “The QCS is participating as a Silver Sponsor to enhance its awareness efforts on cancer prevention, early detection, and the importance of public education.”“It will also explore the latest technologies and potential partnerships to improve and innovate healthcare practices, contributing to raising community awareness and improving the quality of life for cancer patients and their families,” he said.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Katara hosts Turkish cultural, music evening

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

Gulf Times
Qatar

HBKU’s CPP completes training for MoFA officials

The College of Public Policy (CPP) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has completed an intensive training programme for senior officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). The course, designed under the theme ‘The Role of the State of Qatar in Mediation and the Resolution of Regional Conflicts’, equips officials with advanced skills relevant to the fields of diplomacy and conflict resolution, a statement said. The three-day training, delivered by CPP Prof Dr Sultan Barakat, was attended by around 25 participants holding high-ranking positions at MoFA, Ministry of Defence, and the armed forces. Dr Abdelaziz al-Hour, director of the Diplomatic Institute, stated: “The choice of subject reflects the strategic importance Qatar places on mediation, and we were delighted to have Dr Barakat share his extensive and global experience with our colleagues.” The curriculum explored the complexities of mediation strategies and concepts, analysed real-world case studies, and discussed tools for measuring the effectiveness of mediation, highlighting the importance of regional and international co-operation in peacebuilding. Additionally, participants were informed on how Qatar’s soft power influences policymaking during times of crisis, the impact of the state’s mediation on peace processes in various regions, as well as Doha’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical situations while maintaining neutrality.

Gulf Times
Qatar

MoPH launches dietary guidelines for mother and child

The Ministry of Public Health has launched the Qatar Dietary Guidelines for Mother and Child (0-5 years), as part of its ongoing efforts to promote the health and quality of life of mothers and children.The guidelines aim to support the health of mothers and their children through scientifically based recommendations covering the stages before pregnancy, during pregnancy, after childbirth, and throughout the early years of a child's life.The guidelines were developed with the participation of a group of experts and specialists in nutrition and health.The guidelines consist of seven chapters that cover a wide range of topics, including diet, lifestyle, breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and other important subjects. Each chapter is designed to empower individuals to adopt healthy habits and make informed decisions.These guidelines serve as an educational and informative tool that helps raise public health awareness across the community, thereby contributing to improving maternal and child health and ensuring healthy child development. They also act as a scientific resource for healthcare providers and a reference point for the development of future health policies and programmes.Director of the Health Promotion Department at the MoPH Dr Salah Alyafei said: "Qatar Dietary Guidelines for Mother and Child (0-5 years) play a vital role in fostering a healthy society by establishing strong health foundations for individuals from an early age."He added that the MoPH developed the guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence and internationally recommended best practices, while considering the cultural and social context of Qatari society.He noted that proper nutrition during pregnancy and throughout the first five years of a child's life is among the most important factors directly influencing a child's health. It also plays a vital role in preventing chronic diseases in the future and ensuring better health for both current and future generations. (QNA)

Palestinians walk past the rubble following Israeli forces' withdrawal from the area, after Israel and Hamas agreed on the Gaza ceasefire, in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip, October 10, 2025. REUTERS
International

Historic shift in US public opinion on Gaza conflict, CNN poll reveals

As discussions for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas reach a pivotal stage, new findings from CNN data expert Harry Enten reveal a dramatic change in how Americans view the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.For the first time in over four decades of polling, a greater number of Americans now express support for Palestinians than for Israelis.“Back in October 2023, public opinion favored Israel by a wide 48-point margin,” Enten explained. “Today, that balance has flipped — Palestinians are ahead by a single point. We've never seen anything like this.”According to Enten, this marks the first recorded lead for Palestinians in U.S. sentiment regarding the long-standing Middle East dispute — a shift he described as “historic in its scale.”Democratic Voters Drive the ChangeThe most significant transformation has occurred within the Democratic Party. In 2023, Democratic voters leaned toward Israel by 26 points. That has now reversed, with Democrats backing Palestinians by 46 points — a massive 72-point swing.“It’s not just a shift — it’s a full-scale reversal,” Enten noted, adding that the war in Gaza, especially its toll on civilians, has had a strong impact on younger generations.Republican Views Split by AgeWhile Republican support for Israel remains strong overall, there's a clear generational divide emerging. Among Republicans over 50, Israel holds a 66-point advantage in sympathy. But that lead shrinks dramatically to just 25 points among Republicans under 50.“That’s a striking 40-point difference,” Enten said. “Younger Republicans are noticeably more open to the Palestinian perspective compared to older members of the party.”Majority of Americans Want Conflict to EndAlongside this shift in sympathy, there’s broad public backing for peace efforts. Recent polling shows that over 80% of Americans favor a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas:51% say it’s very or extremely important meanwhile, 31% consider it somewhat important“With negotiations underway and the possibility of hostages being released, the American public is clearly hoping for a resolution,” Enten said. “People want this war to come to an end.”

Gulf Times
Qatar

HBKU's CPP spotlights storytelling, narratives at Hadaba forum

The College of Public Policy (CPP) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), through its Hadaba initiative, recently held ‘Hadaba 25: Public Narrative & Data Storytelling’ forum at Minaretein, Education City. This year's theme was designed to advance innovation in policy design through narrative strategy and data storytelling. In doing so, it explores the intersection of data, which is transparent, accountable, and empirical, with storytelling providing the emotional resonance needed to engage people, build narratives, and communicate complex concepts. The two-day event brought together around 180 policymakers, researchers, practitioners, and students to develop practical, data-driven narratives that inform public policy. It blended collaborative training sessions, masterclasses, workshops, talks and keynotes to ensure participants are equipped with skills in data visualisation, policy communication, and collaborative storytelling. As part of the event, Unicef expert Priscillia Hoveyda delivered a talk on 'Storytelling in Humanitarianism,' emphasising the importance of promoting this medium among people facing displacement and humanitarian crisis. Representatives from Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council; Harvard Kennedy School, Weill Cornell Medical College and the Leadership Hub also led sessions and masterclasses across various topics. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology led a talk session which explored Qatar's public sector in the context of narrative. Commenting on the theme of the event and its significance, Dr Logan Cochrane, acting dean, CPP, said: “Authentic stories are more memorable than raw data, and this starts by understanding exactly what a narrative is, its parts, and how to align them to inspire action and inform decision-making. We recognise that storytelling grounded in data is not only a communication skill but a strategic policy tool.”

Gulf Times
International

Rome prosecutor investigates complaints filed by Global Sumud Flotilla activists

The Office of the Public Prosecutor in Rome announced that it has opened an investigation into complaints filed by Italian activists and parliamentarians who were aboard vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which were intercepted by Israeli forces off the coast of the Gaza Strip.The Italian news agency (AKI) reported that the prosecutor's office intends to interview participants in the initiative as persons familiar with the events, after reviewing the documents submitted and assessing its jurisdiction over the case.According to media reports, Israeli forces seized vessels belonging to the Global Sumud Flotilla last Wednesday while they were sailing in international waters on a humanitarian mission bound for Gaza. Hundreds of international activists were detained aboard the ships before the start of their deportation.The Global Sumud Flotilla — comprising human rights activists, parliamentarians, and civil society representatives from several countries — had sought to deliver humanitarian aid and draw attention to the ongoing blockade of the Gaza Strip.The investigation, AKI noted, comes amid growing international concern over the treatment of the detained activists and the legality of Israel's interception of the flotilla in international waters.

Gulf Times
Qatar

MoPH, WHO office in Qatar hold workshop on National Plan for Health Security

More than 100 experts and specialists from the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), along with national ministries and agencies, took part in a five-day workshop recently organised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) office in Qatar, in collaboration with the MoPH. The workshop focused on the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS).The National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) provides a comprehensive framework to ensure Qatar’s preparedness to prevent, detect and respond to health threats, ranging from outbreaks of infectious diseases to chemical, biological and radiological hazards. The workshop brought together representatives from government bodies, healthcare providers, academia, civil society and partner organisations with the aim of strengthening Qatar’s capacity to prepare for and respond to health emergencies.Participants actively engaged in discussions and technical activities with experts from the WHO Health Emergencies Programme at both the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean and WHO headquarters. The sessions focused on assessing current capacities, identifying key priority gaps and developing a comprehensive national plan for health security.Director of the Health Emergency Department at MoPH, Dr Soha Albayat, stated: “The workshop reflects Qatar’s commitment to the International Health Regulations and to ensuring the highest standards of health security and well being. It represents a key step in the development of the National Action Plan for Health Security.”For her part, WHO Representative in Qatar, Dr Rayana Bou Haka, also emphasised the importance of the workshop, saying: “Health security is one of the top priorities of the WHO partnership with Qatar. This workshop marks an important milestone in our joint efforts to develop and enhance Qatar’s advanced preparedness and response capacities.”Through this workshop, Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national health security while contributing to regional and international efforts to protect communities from emerging threats.The workshop concluded with an agreed set of actions to strengthen inter-sectoral co-ordination, build technical and operational capacities, and ensure the sustainability of long-term efforts to enhance health security across all sectors.The outcomes of the workshop will guide the next phase of implementing the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS), in alignment with Qatar’s National Health Strategy (NHS) and the WHO’s priorities for emergency preparedness and response.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Ashghal Awards 13 New Contracts Worth QR 12 billion to Develop and Enhance Sustainable Infrastructure Services in Qatar

The Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ has announced the award of 13 new contracts worth 12 billion Qatari riyals, which aim to enhance the infrastructure of road and drainage networks and public buildings and improve the quality of life in Qatar.On his part, His Excellency Eng. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Meer, President of the Public Works Authority, said: “Ashghal's award of new contracts worth QR 12 billion represents a strategic step that enhances the sustainability and integration of infrastructure, consolidates Qatar's leadership in this field, and supports the national economy within the framework of Qatar National Vision 2030.”Eng. Khalid Saif Al Khayareen, Projects Affairs Director at Ashghal, said that the authority continues to implement its strategic plan to develop infrastructure services and public buildings in the country in response to the requirements of population growth and urban expansion, and in line with the state's aspirations and future vision. He explained that the new projects that were awarded include 6 key projects, including the construction and development of road networks and several educational, health, and service buildings in coordination with the relevant authorities in the country.Eng. Ahmed Al Ahmad, Asset Affairs Director at Ashghal, said: "The operation and maintenance contracts awarded will contribute to improving the management of road and drainage networks and ensuring the sustainability of infrastructure assets, which will ultimately improve the quality of services provided to citizens and residents." He added that the projects will be implemented to the highest standards of quality and safety, using the latest technologies and equipment in operation and maintenance processes.Road Network Operation and Maintenance WorksThe contracts include the implementation of infrastructure projects to develop road networks across the country, in addition to contracts covering the operation and maintenance of strategic roads in both the North and South Qatar. This is in addition to contracts to develop and adopt intelligent transportation systems (ITS).Contracts were recently awarded to a group of the world's largest contractors, and work is expected to commence in October 2025. The operation and maintenance period extends to five years for all projects, except for the ITS project, which extends to three years.The projects aim to operate and maintain road assets using innovative technologies, including an AI-based digital management platform, self-driving vehicles for asset surveys, and laser technology to proactively detect and deal with road defects, as well as adopting smart systems to monitor road conditions.These works contribute to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030 by promoting sustainable infrastructure, improving efficiency, and extending the lifespan of road assets, using innovative materials and technologies to enhance road durability.Drainage Networks Operation and Maintenance WorksThe projects are expected to commence in Q1 of 2026. In the coming years, Ashghal seeks to increase its reliance on the latest technologies and innovations used in drainage operation and maintenance, including the use of robots and drones equipped with CCTV cameras to inspect assets, and the use of automation, digital twins, and analytics to predict faults. This is in addition to smart control systems and remote sensing technologies.The Enterprise Asset Management System (EAMS) will be enhanced, and maintenance priorities will be identified based on risks and integrated with Building Information Modeling (BIM). These new approaches to asset management directly contribute to achieving environmental sustainability and adapting to climate change, which in turn affects drainage networks. Ashghal also pays great attention to developing Qatari employees and transferring knowledge through organizing specialized training courses.These works contribute to improving the efficiency of drainage networks in Qatar, enhancing their capacity, and ensuring their continued operation with high efficiency, meeting the needs of citizens and residents, and contributing to achieving sustainability and quality of life standards.Construction and Development of Four Building ProjectsFour new building projects have been awarded, including the construction of three new schools, the improvement of safety systems in 40 existing schools, the refurbishment of the Psychiatric Hospital of Hamad Medical Corporation, and the renovation of Al Zubara Horse Breeding Farm.* Construction of 3 New SchoolsAshghal continues to support the education sector by constructing three new schools for boys in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, as part of its efforts to provide a modern and advanced educational environment.Implementation is scheduled to begin in Q4 of 2025, and the projects include: The projects include a preparatory school for boys in Mebaireek, a preparatory/secondary school for boys in Mesaimeer, and a model school for boys in Fereej Al Soudan. The projects will focus on the use of high-quality, easy-to-maintain finishing materials to ensure an attractive, safe, and stimulating learning environment.* Improving Safety and Fire Systems in 40 Existing SchoolsAshghal has begun implementing a comprehensive project to modernize and modify 40 existing school buildings in various regions of the country, with the aim of keeping pace with the latest Qatar Civil Defense standards for educational buildings. The project aims to raise the level of safety and operational flexibility in schools by installing modern fire safety and life protection systems, ensuring a safer learning environment for students and educational bodies.* Refurbishment of the Psychiatric Hospital of Hamad Medical CorporationAs part of supporting the healthcare sector and developing mental health services in the country, Ashghal is preparing to launch a project to complete the development of the Psychiatric Hospital of Hamad Medical Corporation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Health. Implementation works are scheduled to commence in Q4 of 2025.The project includes renovating the existing buildings, constructing a new patient building, as well as developing the external infrastructure, including improving the internal road network and providing new parking lots.* Renovation of Al Zubara Horse Breeding FarmAs part of the cooperation between the Ministry of Sports and Youth and the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, Ashghal will implement the Design and Build project to Repair and Renovate the Horse Breeding Farm in Al Zubarah, one of the largest specialized farms in the world, supporting Qatar's position as a leading global destination for horse racing and equestrian events. The farm is located on Al Shamal Road, approximately 60 km to the North of Doha, and extends over an area of ​​approximately 150 hectares. The project, scheduled to begin in October 2025, includes comprehensive rehabilitation and modernization works for all buildings and facilities.Highway Network Support ProjectAs part of its plans to complete the highway network, and its ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure and enhance connectivity between the various areas in Qatar, Ashghal awarded a project to construct link roads from Al Mazrooah to Al Attoriya and Bu-Thaila areas (zone 71 & 72), with a total length of 22 km.The project aims to connect the surrounding residential areas directly to the highway network, by enhancing the connection between Bu-Thaila and Al Attoriya areas with Al Shamal Road, Al Khor Road, and Dukhan Road via Al Majd Road. This will contribute to supporting economic and agricultural activities in the surrounding areas and provide vital services to the farms, in addition to preparing the area for future urban development in line with the state's vision and the national development plan.Al Karaana Road Development ProjectThe project aims to provide an advanced road network in the Al Karaana area and implement an integrated infrastructure within the project scope. Works include the construction of a 6.5 km road network to provide a direct connection to Salwa Road and facilitate access to the establishments and facilities in the area. A 4.7 km internal road network will also be constructed to regulate traffic in the camel racetrack. Traffic safety features, street lighting, parking lots, and landscaping will also be provided. The project also includes treated wastewater and irrigation networks totaling 17.5 km.

The delegation of the State of Qatar was headed by HE the Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud.
Qatar

Qatar calls for international efforts to counter challenges of NCDs

The State of Qatar participated in the Fourth High-Level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being, held in New York under the theme: "Equity and Integration: Transforming Lives and Livelihoods through Leadership and Action on Non-Communicable Diseases and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being."The delegation of the State of Qatar was headed by HE the Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud.In his address, HE Al Mahmoud emphasised the importance of joint international efforts to confront the growing challenges of NCDs, strengthen mental health, and advance progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the target of reducing premature deaths from NCDs by one third.He noted that Qatar's National Health Strategy 2024-2030 prioritises the reduction of NCDs and the promotion of mental health and well-being, with a clear target of reducing NCD-related mortality by 36%.Drawing on the findings of the 2023 National STEPS Survey, HE Al Mahmoud highlighted the launch of nationwide campaigns on diabetes, obesity, and heart health, alongside innovative initiatives such as awareness programs linking oral health to the prevention of chronic diseases. He also underlined Qatar's continued investment in training healthcare professionals in collaboration with leading universities and institutions and the introduction of new care models, including AI-based applications and integrated treatments for mental health."Innovation lies at the heart of our vision," he said. "We employ AI-driven analytics to monitor diseases and advance precision medicine, through projects in personalised healthcare carried out in partnership between the Ministry of Public Health, the Qatar Precision Health Institute, and Sidra Medicine."He further stressed Qatar's collaboration with international partners, including the World Health Organisation, the Gulf Cooperation Council Health Council, and the Gulf Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.Qatar, HE Al Mahmoud added, has also expanded mental health services and rehabilitation centres, and looks forward to hosting the Sixth Global Ministerial Summit on Mental Health.He affirmed: "The progress achieved by the State of Qatar reflects its firm conviction that health is a fundamental pillar of human and social development. We reaffirm our commitment to continue these efforts and to work hand in hand with our international partners for a healthier, fairer, and more prosperous future for all."The meeting reaffirmed the importance of strengthening global and national commitments to address the challenges of NCDs and mental health through enhanced cross-sectoral cooperation, health system transformation, sustainable financing, tackling social, economic, commercial, and environmental determinants of risk and inequality, and accelerating a comprehensive, equitable, and high-quality response worldwide.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar hails launch of Global Autism Alliance

Qatar participated in the high-level ministerial meeting launching the Global Autism Alliance, held at the UN headquarters in New York on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.Qatar was represented at the meeting by HE the Minister of Public Health Mansour bin Ibrahim al-Mahmoud and HE the Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi.The meeting announced the establishment of the alliance as an international platform aimed at fostering understanding, coordinating efforts, and expanding global initiatives to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families.In his opening remarks, HE the Minister of Public Health emphasised the importance of launching the Global Autism Alliance to strengthen joint efforts for sustainable improvement and to provide necessary support to individuals with autism and their families worldwide. He underlined that Qatar attaches great importance to health as a means to achieve a more just, secure, and humane world, and that autism remains a key priority in both public health and social development.He noted that in 2017 Qatar launched its first National Autism Plan, a comprehensive strategy covering awareness, early diagnosis, medical intervention, inclusive education, and lifelong support. He added that the plan is reinforced by large-scale awareness campaigns and strong partnerships with families and communities.He also said that Qatar’s integrated, rights-based approach demonstrates a firm commitment to ensuring that every individual with autism can reach their potential and actively contribute to society.For her part, HE the Minister of Social Development and Family reaffirmed Qatar’s ongoing commitment to promoting social inclusion and achieving health, education, and social equity for individuals with autism. She stressed that this commitment stems from Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country’s comprehensive, rights-based approach to supporting the most vulnerable. She also praised international partnerships that strengthen this initiative.She highlighted that the initiative reflects the vision of Chairperson of Qatar Foundation Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who played a pivotal role in advancing dignity and inclusivity for people with autism and in helping the UN General Assembly adopt Resolution 62/139 in December 2007, which designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day.Al-Nuaimi further explained that the Global Autism Alliance is an important step toward advancing international co-operation and knowledge-sharing through research and innovation, with the aim of increasing the impact of global efforts. She stressed the importance of making innovation central to the initiative, particularly in reimagining social systems, supporting families, and fostering community participation to ensure equal opportunities for all.She noted that the alliance represents a qualitative leap in co-ordinated international efforts to raise awareness about autism and improve services provided to individuals with autism, through collaboration among governments, international organisations, civil society, and the private sector.The event was organised in partnership with Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, the World Health Organisation, Unicef, and Autism Speaks.As part of its commitment to supporting children with autism, Qatar continues its efforts under the Qatar Foundation Strategy 2025-2035, which provides comprehensive support in education, health, and innovation, while strengthening social inclusion. These efforts include early intervention programs offering therapeutic and rehabilitation sessions for children aged 3 to 14, as well as autism-friendly hospitals such as Sidra Medicine, which provides suitable medical environments for children during treatment. Qatar also continues to raise awareness through World Autism Day activities and focuses on inclusive education by integrating specialised programmes for children with autism into both public and private schools.