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His Excellency Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met Tuesday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Malawi Dr. George Thapatula Chaponda, on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development, currently held in Doha.Discussions during the meeting dealt with cooperation relations between the two countries and means to support and develop them.

His Excellency Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met Tuesday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Colombia Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio Mapy, on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development, currently held in Doha.Discussions during the meeting dealt with cooperation relations between the two countries and means to support and develop them.

President of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, stressed that the Second World Summit for Social Development (Doha 2025) presents an ideal opportunity to transition from charting plans to deploying practical solutions for the social challenges facing many of the world's communities.Addressing the Doha Solutions Forum for Social Development, held Monday as part of the summit hosted by Qatar from Nov. 4‑6, Baerbock affirmed that the broad participation expected at the summit will help impart prolific experiences and explore the best solutions to address both current and future social challenges.The summit broadly aims to unify efforts and share expertise to build practical and enduring solutions for global social development challenges, Baerbock underlined. She lavished praise on Qatar's role in backing international efforts to address social problems worldwide, particularly through hosting this monumental global event.The real challenge before the international community today, in terms of social development, lies in the capacity to implement solutions effectively, failure of which exacerbates suffering. Therefore, the Doha Summit is a perfect platform for learning, inspiring ideas, and fostering joint action toward a better future for all, she highlighted.The UN official cited a slew of successful global initiatives in social development, including the Sierra Leone initiative for enabling economic independence for persons with disabilities, which demonstrates empowerment through economic self-reliance rather than charity, achieved by removing barriers to employment, providing vocational training, and offering microloans for entrepreneurial projects.Similarly, India's Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has opened over 531mn new bank accounts, expanding the scope of social services, while civil society organizations in Sri Lanka launched a digital platform that created more than 25,000 job opportunities, underscoring that such initiatives demonstrate the immense value of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society, she outlined.She pointed out that the massive challenge before policymakers lies in scaling such solutions and mobilizing essential resources to implement them on the ground. The global financing gap in social development, estimated at approximately US$4tn, underscores the urgent necessity to establish cooperative frameworks and innovative financial instruments capable of scaling pilot projects into large‑scale initiatives benefiting millions, particularly in areas such as digital transformation, infrastructure enhancement, and social inclusion, Baerbock noted.She further indicated that public‑private sector partnerships, alongside civil society engagement, are the bedrock of achieving comprehensive development, emphasizing that the private sector should be conceived not merely as a source of funding but as a strategic partner in innovation and solution creation.She stressed the importance of women's empowerment and providing opportunities for them to assume leadership across diverse fields, in addition to recognizing existing solutions, exploring novel ones, and sharing expertise to build a more just and enduring future.

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.

Shutter Social, a multicultural photography community, partnered with Doha Wireless Warriors, a dragon boat team of breast cancer survivors, to organise ‘Frames of Strength’, an awareness photo shoot at Katara Beach. Both groups aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer and highlight the importance of community and creative collaboration. Doha Wireless Warriors is described as Qatar’s first breast cancer dragon boat team, part of a global movement that began in Canada three decades ago. The team provides survivors with strength, motivation, and a supportive environment to stay active and positive through paddling. Ahmed Naazim, founder of Shutter Social, said: “Frames of Strength was not just a photo shoot, but a heartfelt collaboration that reminded us of the power of community and the strength that lies within each survivor’s story. We are proud to have joined hands with Doha Wireless Warriors in creating something truly meaningful.” Sandee Thompson, founder of the Doha Wireless Warriors and Justyna Lane made the event possible with their continuous support and co-ordination, a statement added.

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.

Her Excellency Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad held a phone call with the Ministry of State at the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Welfare of the Republic of Sudan, Dr. Salma Ishaq Al Khalifa, who is also responsible for the issue of violence against women. The call discussed the humanitarian situation in Sudan, particularly the latest developments in El Fasher city, and the need to protect women and children.

The Protection and Social Rehabilitation Center (Aman), part of the Qatar Foundation for Social Work, wrapped up the Light Exhibition held in partnership with Dadu, Children’s Museum of Qatar.The month-long exhibition showcased Aman’s awareness workshops, engaging students from kindergartens and both public and private schools.In this context, Aman Center’s Acting Executive Director Fadel Mohammed al-Kaabi said the Light Exhibition aimed to foster public awareness and education on social protection, while strengthening child safety measures and nurturing children’s creative and innovative abilities.He emphasised that the exhibition provided an educational environment and a unique opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills using new tools such as light and shadow.Al-Kaabi further noted that more than 20 schools were invited, targeting over 300 students from primary levels in both public and private schools, in addition to students from the Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities, children from Dreama Center for Orphan Care, and children benefiting from Aman Center’s internal care services.He explained that the exhibition received positive feedback from educational staff, including social workers and teachers accompanying the students, particularly in how Aman’s awareness workshops were integrated with the exhibition tools. He affirmed that these tools help unleash children’s potential in discovering their identities and creative abilities.For her part, Head of the Communication and Information Office at Aman Center Hanan al-Ali stressed the centre’s commitment to activating community partnerships with various entities and sectors across the country, noting that child protection is a shared responsibility.She added that the collaboration with Dadu Museum marks the beginning of a series of awareness events aimed at children, highlighting the museum’s dedication to delivering information and education through play.

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