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Tuesday, December 09, 2025 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "U-15" (360 articles)

HE al-Kaabi in conversation with CMU-Q dean Trick.
Qatar

Minister discusses sustainability, AI with CMU-Q students

HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi, who is also QatarEnergy president and chief executive, joined the Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) community for a special edition of the Dean’s Lecture Series.In a departure from the traditional lecture format, the event was a conversation between the minister and CMU-Q dean Michael Trick, followed by a question-and-answer session with students.The dialogue covered the most pressing topics at the intersection of energy, technology, and the environment.HE al-Kaabi shared his perspective on the evolution of Qatar’s energy sector, the nation’s role in the global energy transition, and the critical importance of technologies in ensuring the long-term competitiveness of Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG).He said that QatarEnergy’s approach to the energy transition is to grow responsibly, emphasising that gas remains the lowest-emission fossil fuel and, when it replaces coal, emissions are immediately reduced.The minister said that QatarEnergy is pairing its LNG expansion with best-in-class emissions practices, large-scale carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration, and significant solar power developments to deliver the energy the world needs in the most efficient and sustainable way possible.CMU-Q dean Trick emphasised the importance of the minister engaging with students.“The purpose of this series has always been to bridge education and real-world challenges and opportunities that await our graduates,” he said.“Today’s event is exactly in that tradition, offering our students a rare opportunity to engage directly with a pivotal figure in the global energy landscape,” Trick added.A significant portion of the event was dedicated to student questions, a format that HE al-Kaabi specifically requested to foster a genuine dialogue with the next generation of leaders.Students from across CMU-Q’s programmes engaged the minister on a wide range of subjects.A key topic was the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing sustainability and efficiency within the energy sector.Building national capacity through education remains fundamental to Qatar’s sustainable future, HE al-Kaabi noted.He said that education is paramount and that building national capability starts with equipping youth with the skills and knowledge to deliver across disciplines.By investing in their development and giving them real opportunities to grow, the minister said, QatarEnergy is empowering the next generation of leaders to drive Qatar’s sustainable future.The conversation provided students with firsthand insight into the strategic decisions that are shaping the future of energy in Qatar and around the world.

Gulf Times
Qatar

QF programme holds ability friendly swimming event

Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Ability Friendly programme, under Pre-University Education, organised a two-day swimming competition aimed at promoting inclusion through sport and empowering people with disabilities.The competition brought together around 70 participants and their families as part of an initiative that reflects Ability Friendly programme and its commitment to providing sports and recreational activities that offer participants equal opportunities to showcase their skills and build self-confidence.The event was sponsored by Sasol, reaffirming its commitment to empowering people with disabilities.The partnership with the QF aims to promote sports as a platform for rehabilitation, empowerment, and community inclusion.“At Sasol, we believe that true progress is measured not only by innovation and growth, but by how inclusive and equitable our communities become,” said Sasol vice-president (Qatar Country Management) Lourens Jacobs.“Through our long-standing collaboration with Qatar Foundation and our Accessible Qatar initiative, we continue to champion opportunities that empower every individual to participate fully and equally in society,” he said. “This Ability Friendly Swimming Competition reflects a shared belief that when barriers are removed, talent, courage, and determination shine through.”Jacobs emphasised that sport serves as a universal language, one that celebrates ability, strengthens communities, and inspires change.He highlighted that the athletes competing in the event demonstrate that inclusion is not about accommodation, but about creating environments where everyone can excel.Aisha Jassim al-Ali, the mother of Jassim al-Sulaiti, one of the participants with autism, said: “For Jassim, swimming has become a source of confidence and independence. He joined the Ability Friendly programme eight years ago, and since then, we’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in his personality, one that has had a positive impact on his daily life, behaviour, and self-confidence.”“The Ability Friendly programme is a true outlet for our children,” she said. “It’s no longer just about playing sports for recreation, but about preparing champions who can compete in local tournaments.”“Today, I see Jassim competing alongside his peers with confidence and pride,” al-Ali added.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar joins UN convention against cybercrime

Qatar signed the UN Convention against Cybercrime during an official ceremony held Saturday in Hanoi, Vietnam, with broad international participation.The Convention was signed on behalf of Qatar by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad.In a speech during the ceremony, HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation said that the adoption of the UN Convention against Cybercrime represents an important turning point in the international system and reflects a collective will to protect the security of peoples in the digital space, noting that cybersecurity is no longer merely a technical issue, but has become a pillar of international peace and security.She further said that Qatar was among the first to support the development of a comprehensive agreement based on international cooperation, protecting infrastructure, and strengthening national capacities, especially in developing countries. She noted that the agreement fills a gap in the international legal system and enables countries to work together to confront cyber threats that affect human security and the stability of societies.Combating cybercrime is an act of peace, Her Excellency said, noting that protecting the digital space contributes to preventing conflicts, building trust, and supporting dialogue between countries.From this standpoint, she added, Qatar's commitment to cybersecurity aligns with its established role in mediation, building bridges, and promoting peaceful solutions. Just as Qatar works to resolve conflicts in the real world, it also strives to prevent conflicts in the digital realm, believing that true peace encompasses all dimensions of human life.She noted the establishment of the UN Regional Centre for Combating Cybercrime in Doha, which will contribute to capacity building and strengthening international cooperation, particularly in serving developing countries, in preparation for the implementation of this Convention.Her Excellency affirmed Qatar's commitment to being a reliable international partner in building peace and protecting security, in both the real and digital worlds, out of its conviction that protecting human beings and preserving their dignity is the essence of all security and peace.The Convention is the first UN criminal justice treaty adopted in more than 20 years, and the first global treaty on cybercrime and the exchange of electronic evidence related to serious crimes.

Al-Obaidly explained at the beginning of the statement that the existence and use of weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons, threatens the security of states and the safety of peoples and violates fundamental human rights, foremost among which is the right to life.
Qatar

Qatar calls for full adherence to all conventions on disarmament

Qatar has stressed the importance of full and complete implementation of all international conventions and treaties related to the prohibition and disarmament of weapons of mass destruction of all kinds, to maintain the safety of future generations and protect the planet.This came in a statement delivered by Ahmed Abdullah al-Obaidly, a member of the Qatari delegation participating in the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, before the First Committee of the General Assembly during its 80th session, on the item entitled 'Other Weapons of Mass Destruction', at the UN Headquarters in New York.Al-Obaidly explained at the beginning of the statement that the existence and use of weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons, threatens the security of states and the safety of peoples and violates fundamental human rights, foremost among which is the right to life.He noted that this danger increases with the possibility of non-state actors obtaining these weapons and their means of delivery. He pointed out that Qatar, at the national level, continues to develop and update national legislation related to weapons of mass destruction, in line with its obligations under the international conventions to which it has acceded.He explained that Qatar co-operates closely with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and is working to strengthen its role in supporting the implementation of the convention. He added that Qatar is currently hosting the 12th Annual Meeting of Representatives of the Chemical Industry and National Authorities of States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention, from Oct 21 to 24 in Doha, with the aim of enhancing co-operation between the chemical industry and national authorities to support the full and effective implementation of the convention.He expressed Qatar's welcome to the adoption by the Executive Council of the OPCW, at its 110th session, of the resolution entitled "The Accelerated Destruction of Any Remaining Chemical Weapons in the Syrian Arab Republic," which was adopted by consensus among Member States.He said that Qatar, as the state representing the interests of Syria within the OPCW, had submitted the draft resolution to the Executive Council in support of the international community's efforts to eliminate any remnants of chemical weapons and promote constructive cooperation between States Parties and the OPCW.The resolution was co-sponsored by more than 50 countries. The statement indicated that Qatar, in support of regional efforts to exchange knowledge and raise awareness of the importance of disarmament, organized and hosted three sessions of the Arab Forum on Arms Control, Disarmament, and Non-Proliferation, the last of which was held in Doha from June 4 to 6, 2024.Al-Obaidly said that Qatar hosted a regional training course for national focal points on the implementation of the Biological Weapons Convention at the UN House in Doha in 2024, with the aim of enhancing the implementation of the Convention and exchanging information and expertise between national focal points and stakeholders in the Middle East and North Africa.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar partakes in panel discussion on quantifying South-South co-operation

Qatar participated in the third panel discussion on quantifying South-South co-operation, held on the occasion of the South-South Co-operation Forum, which is organised by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), with the participation of high-level representatives of countries and international and regional organisations.Qatar’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva Jawhara bint Abdulaziz al-Suwaidi represented the country in the panel discussion. Al-Suwaidi said that Qatar’s journey began with a shared vision aimed at highlighting the contributions of countries from the South, which led to the establishment of the UN Framework to Measure South-South Co-operation, a framework developed by countries from the South and welcomed by the UN Statistical Commission in 2022. She added that two major regional meetings contributed to advancing this work, the first in Brazil in 2023, and the second hosted by Qatar in June 2024.She emphasised that shared data is not merely a technical tool, but a strategic asset for achieving development, noting that Qatar is participating as a leading country in a global project led by UNCTAD and the UN regional commissions to test the UN framework, which enables countries to collect and report data in line with their national priorities, while contributing to highlighting the role of South-South co-operation in advancing sustainable development.The Deputy Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the UN Office in Geneva added that this commitment stems from the Qatar National Vision 2030, which places international co-operation and solidarity at the heart of sustainable development. She considered South-South partnerships a key focus of Qatar’s development strategy.Lack of data has long prevented adequate representation of the contributions of countries from the South, she said, explaining that the new UN framework will help highlight these contributions to supporting sustainable development, particularly through the sustainable development goals (SDGs) indicator (17-3-1), which measures financial flows. The framework accommodates all forms of co-operation, both financial and non-financial.The Doha meeting, which brought together 66 developing economies, confirmed that the UN framework represents a milestone, but at the same time emphasised the need to expand support for national data systems, especially in countries with limited capacity. Al-Suwaidi said, while noting that national ownership remains a fundamental pillar of sustainability.In this context, al-Suwaidi welcomed the Seville Practitioners’ Network and commended UNCTAD’s initiative to launch the South-South data exchange fund, emphasising the importance of adequately and sustainably funding this effort beyond 2030. She added that the Doha meeting concluded with three key messages, including emphasising that co-operation is the greatest strength of the countries of the South, which calls for closer co-ordination between national statistical offices, ministries, and international co-operation agencies, in addition to calling on UNCTAD to develop standardised tools, support national data systems, and facilitate reporting processes.The meeting emphasised that inclusiveness must be the compass guiding our joint work, through the establishment of a regular platform for consultation and exchange of views on concepts, methodologies, and techniques for data measurement, in line with the principles of sovereignty, equality, mutual benefit, and diversity. Discussions also highlighted that innovation is a fundamental pillar in developing shared data platforms that can play a pivotal role in enhancing knowledge sharing.Al-Suwaidi welcomed UNCTAD’s collaboration with the South-South Galaxy programme, managed by the UN Office for South-South Co-operation, as a mechanism that enables the exchange of expertise and innovation of solutions through open-source tools, standardised formats, and shared resources.She stressed that South-South co-operation must be based on reliable data and field case studies, noting that five countries have submitted their initial data to UNCTAD, while Qatar looks forward to integrating its data into the UN framework, thus strengthening the common development narrative of the countries of the South.She emphasised that Qatar’s hosting and participation in these meetings, from Doha to Seville and Geneva, represents both an honour and a responsibility, reiterating the country’s commitment to continuing joint work with partners to ensure that every initiative of solidarity, knowledge exchange, and investment in shared prosperity is recognised and its impact clearly highlighted.The Deputy Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the UN Office in Geneva encouraged countries to collect their shared data on South-South co-operation, given its importance in strengthening shared voices and enabling countries to manage their co-operation in a manner supported by evidence and trust.

Gulf Times
Sport

Al-Asaker, al-Hadi and Mashael shine at Hathab

Mohammed al-Asaker stole the spotlight in the fifth round of the ninth edition of the Qatar Equestrian Tour – Longines Hathab – clinching the Golden Tour title with a commanding performance at the Qatar Equestrian Federation’s outdoor arenaRiding Skoblinski, al-Asaker delivered a superb round to finish in 56.07 seconds, ahead of Ibrahim Yousef al-Mahmoud on Costa (57.69 seconds) and Khaled al-Eid on Raker (59.57 seconds). In the Golden Tour Team event, Wathnan emerged victorious with a combined time of 120.62 seconds, narrowly edging Ajwad (120.93 seconds), while Al Fardan settled for third (121.68 seconds).Earlier in the day, the Open Tour (110 cm) produced thrilling performances, with Khaled Al Hadi taking first place after clocking 30.51 seconds on Doremi. Mohammed al-Dhalaan came in second on Sarina (30.67 seconds), followed by Saif Mohammed al-Nuaimi on Sydney (31.08 seconds).In the junior category, Khalid Jassim al-Suwaidi secured top spot on Du Guinette (31.23 seconds), ahead of Ali Omar al-Ansari on Nikita (33.07 seconds) and Sherida Nasser al-Kaabi on Extra Pam (33.31 seconds).The competition also featured the Future Riders Tour (70 cm), where Mashael Mohammed al-Thani excelled to claim first place on Malaga with a time of 50.07 seconds, just 0.07 seconds off the ideal time. Nasser Hamad al-Thani took second on Coco Chanel (49.59 seconds, 0.41 seconds off), while Hessa Ali al-Jaber finished third on Violet (50.68 seconds, 0.68 seconds off).

HE Sheikha Alya reaffirmed Qatar's welcome of the UN General Assembly's adoption of the New York Declaration on implementing the two-state solution and establishing an independent Palestinian state.
Qatar

Qatar: ending Gaza war is a shared responsibility

Qatar has reiterated that the success of the first phase of the agreement to end the war in the Gaza Strip is a collective responsibility to ensure its implementation, leading to a comprehensive cessation of hostilities and the achievement of peace and stability in the region, in full compliance with the principles of the Charter and international law.This came in a statement delivered by Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, during the Quarterly Open Debate of the Security Council on the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question, held at the UN headquarters in New York.HE Sheikha Alya noted that the meeting follows the convening of the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit on Oct 13, highlighting the participation of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, in the signing ceremony of the agreement to end the war in Gaza, alongside US President Donald Trump, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.She added that over the past two years, Qatar has continued its mediation efforts in partnership with Egypt and the US, and despite challenges and obstacles, an agreement was reached to end the bloodshed and humanitarian suffering in Gaza.HE Sheikha Alya pointed out that the mediation succeeded in securing humanitarian truces that alleviated suffering by delivering aid to the Palestinian people and facilitating the release of detainees and prisoners.She emphasised that Qatar remains committed to its role as a mediator and peace-building leader, with its wise leadership dedicated to resolving conflicts through diplomatic means and undertaking humanitarian efforts to relieve the suffering of the people of Gaza and create favourable conditions for the return of displaced persons.She explained that the Qatar's Gaza Reconstruction Committee has initiated efforts to rebuild by clearing rubble, reopening main roads, and facilitating the movement of Palestinians within the Strip. Qatar also launched a land bridge through Jordanian and Egyptian territories to deliver humanitarian aid, including shelter tents and food and medical supplies for more than 436,000 affected individuals in the Strip.HE Sheikha Alya reaffirmed Qatar's welcome of the UN General Assembly's adoption of the New York Declaration on implementing the two-state solution and establishing an independent Palestinian state.She expressed appreciation for the leadership roles of Saudi Arabia and France in this regard and welcomed the positive stances of countries that have recognised the State of Palestine, affirming its rightful claim to full UN membership.She stressed that for a peaceful settlement and the success of the two-state solution, it is essential to reject actions that undermine it, including settlement expansion in the West Bank, settler violence, and land appropriation, affirming that Gaza is an inseparable part of Palestinian territory and of a unified Palestinian state.She conveyed Qatar's strongest condemnation of the Israeli Knesset's approval of two draft laws aimed at imposing Israeli sovereignty over the occupied West Bank, describing them as a challenge to international law and legitimate resolutions.She urged the international community, especially the Security Council, to assume its legal and moral responsibilities and take urgent action to compel Israeli authorities to halt expansionist plans and settlement policies in occupied Palestinian territories.She continued by condemning plans to construct a settlement that would sever East Jerusalem from the West Bank, calling it a blatant violation of international legitimacy, particularly Resolution 2334.HE Sheikha Alya expressed Qatar's denunciation of statements regarding the so-called Greater Israel Vision, considering them a continuation of crisis escalation and violations of state sovereignty and international law.HE Sheikha Alya also reaffirmed Qatar's support for Syria, its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity, and its people's aspirations for stability and development. She condemned Israeli attacks on Syria, describing them as grave violations of international law.She reiterated Qatar's steadfast support for the Republic of Lebanon and the efforts of its government, stressing the need for Israeli occupation forces to withdraw from all Lebanese territories, and called on all parties to strictly adhere to the ceasefire agreement.HE Sheikha Alya affirmed Qatar's unwavering commitment to its sincere and credible approach to the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and mediation, and its support for all initiatives aimed at promoting peace and security in the region and the world.

HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani unveils ‘A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told’ exhibition on Thursday at the NMOQ.
Qatar

Landmark celebration at NMoQ with ‘A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory Exhibition’

Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani unveiled the major retrospective “A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told” on Thursday, marking the official kickoff of the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)’s 50th-anniversary celebrations across Doha. The celebration featured the recognition of major donors, the prestigious Anniversary Awards Dinner, themed *Recognising Evolution – A Journey from Tradition to Tomorrow, and the “Taste Evolution: Collaboration Dinner”, presented by Qatar Creates. **media[373167]** The opening was attended by QM chief executive Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi and NMoQ director Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Thani, among other dignitaries and guests. “A Nation’s Legacy” chronicles the NMoQ’s journey, from its establishment in 1975 as the region’s first national museum to its reinvention in 2019 as a cutting-edge experiential institution housed within an iconic building designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. **media[373173]** According to the QM, the NMoQ’s 50th-anniversary festivities began on October 22 with a symbolic voyage of the historical dhow Fateh Al Khair. Bearing the museum’s logo, the dhow sailed along the Doha Corniche, serving as a visual narrative of continuity, resilience, and transformation. **media[373169]** The ceremony was enhanced by cultural maritime performances, featuring renowned Qatari singer Munsoor al-Muhannadi, highlighting the museum’s role as a vital bridge between past heritage and future generations. “For half a century, the NMoQ has safeguarded the legacy of our nation and our national treasures while continually developing new means of storytelling through the latest advances in technology,” Sheikh Abdulaziz said in a press statement. **media[373168]** “With ‘A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told’, we invite audiences to join us in celebrating the institution’s remarkable record of honouring our heritage while imagining what is to come.” NMoQ Research and Collections deputy director Dr Abdullah Mohammed al-Sulaiti told reporters during the press preview that extensive public programming will form part of the exhibition, aimed at nurturing creativity, learning, and cultural participation across all age groups. Key among these initiatives is “NMoQ Late: Our Heritage, By Young NMoQ”, which aims to empower teenagers by offering creative expression opportunities, after-hours access, and culturally relevant initiatives. This effort seeks to position the museum as a vital “third space”, a welcoming environment where youth can connect, collaborate, develop skills, and build a sense of ownership within the community. The QM added that the NMoQ’s learning and outreach programmes, such as workshops, educational activities, and immersive experiences, will further connect audiences with Qatar’s heritage. Specialised culinary initiatives like collaborations with Chef Noof, Desert Rose, and cooking classes at Jiwan will explore food as a living heritage, demonstrating how traditional practices are preserved, adapted, and celebrated today. These programmes will transform the exhibition from a historical survey into a vibrant, interactive journey celebrating Qatar’s past, present, and future. The QM noted that the anniversary celebrations included a special tribute dedicated to the significant donations that have enriched the QM’s collections and sustained the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage. These gifts were highlighted as a reflection of deep civic pride and the shared commitment of individuals, families, and institutions to safeguarding Qatar’s legacy. The celebrations also featured a live musical performance from Dana al-Meer and Hala al-Emadi, who reflected Qatar’s evolving national identity through a lively fusion of traditional Arabic and modern sounds. It concluded with “Taste Evolution: The Collaboration Dinner”, a culinary experience crafted by Chef Noof al-Marri and QC+’s Michelin-starred Chef Jeremy Cheminade, blending authentic Qatari flavours with contemporary techniques.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar, Turkiye ties growing steadily: Amir

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani stressed that the historical relations and exemplary cooperation between Qatar and Turkiye are steadily progressing toward broader and promising horizons, in light of the significant achievements of the Supreme Strategic Committee between the two countries.In a post on his official X account, His Highness the Amir said that the historical relations and exemplary cooperation between Qatar and Turkiye are progressing toward broader and promising horizons, in light of the significant achievements of the Supreme Strategic Committee between the two fraternal countries. His Highness expressed his pleasure in meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Doha, where they co-chaired the committee's eleventh session.

Gulf Times
Sport

Sheikh Joaan attends renewal of cooperation agreement signing ceremony between OCA, ANOCA

HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, Senior Vice President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) and President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, attended Wednesday the signing ceremony for the renewal of the Cooperation Agreement between the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA). The ceremony took place on the sidelines of the 3rd Asian Youth Games currently being held in Bahrain. The agreement was signed by Timothy Fok, First Vice President of the OCA, and Mustapha Berraf, President of ANOCA. This renewed agreement aims to strengthen mutual cooperation between the two bodies, develop joint initiatives to address shared challenges faced by athletes and professionals across both continents, enhance technical exchange programs, train sports administrators, and coordinate efforts in preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028. Also present at the signing were Dr. Thani bin Abdulrahman al-Kuwari, Second Vice President of the Qatar Olympic Committee and OCA Vice President for West Asia, and Jassim bin Rashid al-Buenain, Secretary General of the Qatar Olympic Committee and OCA Vice President for the Doha 2030 Asian Games. It is worth noting that Sheikh Joaan is the sole candidate for the presidency of the Olympic Council of Asia, with the election scheduled to take place during the OCA General Assembly in January next year.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar, Turkiye to enhance relations

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and President of the Republic of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan co-chaired Wednesday the 11th meeting of the Qatari-Turkish Supreme Strategic Committee at the Amiri Diwan. At the outset of the meeting, His Highness the Amir welcomed the Turkish president and his accompanying delegation, wishing them a pleasant stay in Qatar and wishing the strategic relations between the two countries continued development and growth across all areas of partnership to achieve the interests of the two fraternal peoples. He pointed out that the 11th meeting of the Supreme Strategic Committee reflects the strength of the relationship between the two countries, stressing his keenness to strengthen and develop relations to broader horizons. **media[372048]** For his part, the president of Turkiye voiced his thanks and appreciation to His Highness the Amir for the warm welcome and generous hospitality, noting that bilateral relations between the two countries are witnessing remarkable development in various fields, and looking forward to strengthening them to achieve the supreme interests of the two fraternal peoples. During the meeting, they discussed strategic cooperation relations and ways to enhance and develop them across several areas, especially in defence, trade, investment, energy, and information technology. **media[372045]** They also discussed key regional and international issues and developments, as well as the current situation in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, particularly those related to consolidating the ceasefire, supporting peace, and the flow of humanitarian aid to the Strip. HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, HE Chief of the Amiri Diwan Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Khulaifi, along with a number of ministers and senior offcials attended the meeting. **media[372534]** On Turkiye's side, the meeting was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, along with a number of members of the official delegation accompanying the president. Earlier, His Highness the Amir and the president of Turkiye held a bilateral meeting, where they exchanged views on a number of topics and issues of common concern. **media[372532]** His Highness the Amir held a luncheon banquet in honour of the president of Turkiye and his accompanying delegation. President Erdogan was accorded an official reception ceremony upon arrival to the Amiri Diwan.

Gulf Times
Sport

We hope to show the world the true potential of our country

With the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ set to kick off in less than two weeks, the UAE U- 17 national team is finalising preparations for what promises to be a landmark tournament for youth football globally.Scheduled from 3-27 November, the competition marks the first FIFA World Cup™ to feature 48 teams, with Qatar set to host five consecutive editions through 2029.Drawn into Group C alongside Senegal, Croatia and Costa Rica, the UAE U- 17 national team will begin their journey on 3 November at Aspire Park’s Pitch 8 against Costa Rica. For the young Emirati players, this competition is the realisation of a lifelong dream.Goalkeeper Jassim Al Hammadi looks forward to playing in Qatar after it successfully hosted a historic edition of the FIFA World Cup™: "As a fan, it was a wonderful experience to watch the World Cup in Qatar and now being able to play and train in the same facilities used by Messi and Ronaldo is really exciting."He added: "We take great responsibility and pride in playing football at the U-17 World Cup. I want to give my best for the UAE and play for the first team in the future."While Al Hammadi draws inspiration from football's greats, his teammate Abdulrahman Al Awani is focused on making his own mark. For the young player, this tournament represents uncharted territory. "This is the first major tournament I will be playing in. I am confident we will do well. I hope to make my family and country proud. Football means everything to me."Having witnessed Qatar's preparations first-hand, assistant coach and former UAE player Nawaf Mubarak is impressed by what awaits the teams. "Qatar hosted an amazing World Cup and showed its capabilities to the world. The sporting infrastructure is impressive. The country is beautiful. Everything from hotels to stadiums, and transportation is world-class."For Mubarak, the team’s ambitions are clear and bold. "In this World Cup, we hope to advance as far as possible and to showcase to the world the true potential of our country as strong contenders in international football."The tournament's unique hosting concept will see all 104 matches contested at Aspire Zone's Competition Complex.All tickets will be digital, with Day Passes available for just QAR 20, allowing fans to watch multiple matches throughout the day while enjoying cultural and entertainment activities. Supporters of the Qatar National Team can avail the Follow My Team package to follow the young Maroons through every group stage match.Accessible tickets, including wheelchair-accessible seats are available throughout the tournament. Requests for accessible tickets can be submitted to [email protected] tournament will culminate on 27 November at the Khalifa International Stadium, with tickets to the Final available across two categories, starting from QAR 15.The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ marks the beginning of an exceptional period of elite football competition in Qatar. Taking place from 3-27 November, the tournament will be followed by the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ on 1-18 December and the second edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025™ on 10, 13, and 17 December.For tickets and the full match schedule, visit www.roadtoqatar.qa. Follow @u17worldcupqa on social media for the latest tournament updates.