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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.

Qatar University (QU) celebrated the graduation of a new cohort of students from the Honours Programme for the 2024-2025 academic year.The ceremony honoured 63 male and female graduates from various colleges of the university and was attended by faculty members, programme administrators, the members of the Honours Council, and students' families.The Honours Programme is one of QU's distinguished initiatives designed to support talented and high-achieving students. It provides a stimulating and unique experiential learning environment that emphasises research, innovation, and leadership development, contributing to the preparation of national talents capable of advancing the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.In her speech, Dean of General Studies at QU Dr Saba Qadhi stated that this day represents "a harvest of years of dedication and perseverance.”She added, "This event is not merely a certificate-awarding ceremony, but a celebration of all the achievements our students have accomplished.”Dr Qadhi added, "Today, we celebrate an outstanding generation of QU students who represent the future of our nation and the cornerstone of its development.” She also announced the establishment of the Honours Programme Alumni Association, scheduled to launch in Spring 2026. The association will serve as a platform connecting programme graduates with new students, strengthening community engagement and fostering a sense of belonging among programme members.In his address, Director of the Honours Programme at QU Dr Yousri Marzouki expressed his pride in graduating this cohort under the programme's enhanced framework. He emphasised that this day marks the culmination of the combined efforts of students, faculty, and administrative staff in reinforcing standards of academic excellence and innovation.Dr Marzouki also announced a pioneering initiative being launched for the first time at QU: the introduction of the Digital Badge. Graduates of this year's class will be the first to receive this electronically certified academic distinction, which enables them to document and showcase their achievements across various digital platforms.He explained that the Digital Badge represents a strategic step toward strengthening ongoing engagement between QU and programme graduates, empowering them to leverage their academic experiences in future professional environments. He affirmed that this initiative aligns with QU's commitment to honouring academic excellence and expanding opportunities for innovation, lifelong learning, and development in education.The ceremony concluded with the recognition of graduates, who received certificates of appreciation in a celebratory atmosphere reflecting the university's pride in its outstanding students.

Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Lawh Wa Qalam: M F Husain Museum, set to open on November 28, will be the newest addition to Education City’s vibrant arts scene. Dedicated to the life and work of the renowned Maqbool Fida Husain, the museum will bring the pioneering modern artist’s creativity to life through multimedia storytelling and diverse art forms including paintings, films, tapestry, and photography.**media[380673]**Seeroo Fi Al Ardh – Husain’s final masterpiece, opened at Education City in 2019 – will now form part of Lawh Wa Qalam: M F Husain Museum. It highlights the progress of humanity, and its inclination to utilise the surrounding resources to achieve its goals.Alongside Lawh Wa Qalam: M F Husain Museum, QF has over 100 artworks within its portfolio of public art, all open for everyone to experience and enjoy.Here are other inspiring artworks, installations, and places at Education City where you can explore art, culture, and creativity: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is dedicated to modern and contemporary art of the Arab world. Currently celebrating its 15-year anniversary, exhibitions include we refuse_d, which sees artists explore tensions between resilience and action.**media[380670]**Al Azzm is a sculpture within Education City which symbolises the determination of Qatari women, while also embodying Qatari culture and traditions and the resilience of the nation.Come Together, a public art installation designed by South Korean artist Choi Jeong Hwa, pays tribute to Qatar’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The structure, resembling a dandelion, is made up of workers’ helmets, mirror balls, and traditional Qatari kitchenware.The Media Majlis at Northwestern University in Qatar, a QF partner university, is the first museum in the Arab world dedicated to discussing and examining the content of media, journalism, and communication.Georgetown University in Qatar, a QF partner university, houses a panel of the Berlin Wall, which was brought to the country by Qatar Museums under the Qatar-Germany 2017 Year of Culture, as part of its Public Art Programme. The panel, reinforced with steel bars, is covered in spray painted graffiti that conveys messages of hope, freedom, and change.Damien Hirst’s The Miraculous Journey, which stands outside QF’s women’s and children’s hospital Sidra Medicine, is a series of 14 monumental bronze sculptures that chronicle the gestation of a foetus inside a uterus, from conception to birth.**media[380672]**Louise Bourgeois’ 1999 Maman, housed in Qatar National Convention Centre, is a bronze, stainless steel, and marble sculpture which depicts a spider, and – standing at over 30ft high and over 33ft wide - is among the largest sculptures in the world.

The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) is poised to enchant audiences with a lively performance, titled “Pop's Greatest Hits” Thursday (Nov 13) at the U Venue theatre.This concert, taking place at 8pm, guarantees an exhilarating journey through the pop genre, featuring a selection of both classic and modern hits that have shaped the musical landscape over the years.Under the expert guidance of Grammy-nominated conductor Alastair Willis, vocalists such as Yosra Zekri, Wakasa, Samantha Echevarria Vigo, Lina, Yochabel Reynes, Ahmed El Helou, and Adrian McPherson Romero will collaborate with the orchestra to infuse their symphonic artistry into reinterpreting cherished songs.This will create a distinctive blend of orchestral depth and pop appeal, including Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World,” alongside contemporary favourites like Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black,” featuring new orchestral arrangements by members of QPO: Dr Nasser Sahim, Mohamed Oweida, Islam El Hefnawy, and Fakhriddin Urinboev.QPO noted that attendees can look forward to an evening brimming with dynamic arrangements that showcase the versatility and lasting charm of pop music.The event is set to draw in enthusiasts who value both the magnificence of orchestral performances and the widespread attraction of popular music,promising a memorable experience for everyone at U Venue Theatre, where innovation in programming harmonises with excellence in musicianship.

Qatar Charity (QC) has constructed some 418 wells over the past 20 months in Sri Lanka, providing clean and safe drinking water to more than 28,100 people in underserved communities where public water networks are unavailable.The initiative aims to ease the daily struggle of thousands of families who previously had to walk long distances to fetch water — a challenge that posed health risks, physical and financial strain, particularly for children.Qatar Charity ensured that the wells were tailored to the needs of each targeted area. The initiative includes 45m-deep wells with overhead tanks and electric pumps, 22m wells with similar features, and 30m wells equipped with manual pumps, ensuring sustainable access to water for impoverished households.Qatar Charity continues to work across key sectors in Sri Lanka, including education, health, housing, food security, economic empowerment, and water and sanitation. Its efforts include installing water coolers in schools and mosques, and improving household sanitation facilities, in addition to preparing to launch a desalination plant with a capacity of 10,000 litres per day in a village affected by salinity and contamination — ensuring clean water for all.

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) hosted the official Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix TV promo launch Tuesday during a reveal event held at its newly installed #QatarGP 360° Experience activation, at the Eastern Square in Souq Waqif. An exclusive first look of the new promotional film for the race was shown at the launch event.During the event, attendees had the opportunity to explore the #QatarGP 360° Experience. This installation allowed invitees to experience the 360° film environment for the first time, placing them right in the center of the action.The film “Where Hearts Are Racing”, is a cinematic journey exploring the timeless human pursuit of speed through the lens of Qatari heritage and culture. The film celebrates speed as a universal force that unites people across generations, bridging Qatar’s centuries-old traditions of camel racing, falconry, and equestrian mastery with the cutting-edge excitement of modern Formula 1.Through poetic narration and striking imagery, it draws a powerful connection between the grace and endurance of the past and the precision, innovation, and daring of today’s motorsport. By honoring these echoes of tradition while showcasing modern performance, the film reflects a shared human spirit: bold, connected, and always in motion, fueled by imagination, excellence, and the relentless drive to push boundaries.Fatima al-Qaedi, Marketing Manager at Lusail International Circuit said: “This promotional film beautifully captures Qatar’s deep-rooted passion for racing and speed through a contemporary cinematic lens, portraying the strong connection between Arab heritage and modernity, showcasing how speed has evolved from being a part of local culture into a universal language of ambition, determination, and excellence.The film comes as part of Lusail International Circuit’s preparations to host the Formula 1 Grand Prix, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for fans and strengthening Qatar’s presence on the global sports stage.”The activation is now open for free to the public at Souq Waqif, welcoming visitors to experience the official F1 QatarGP TV promo launch through the #QatarGP 360° experience daily until November 30.It will be open from 3pm to 10pm from Sunday to Wednesday, and from 3pm to 12am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Fans can also watch the film on LIC’s YouTube channel.The Qatar Grand Prix 2025 will take place at Lusail International Circuit from November 28 to 30. Limited tickets are available, and fans are encouraged to secure theirs quickly by visiting tickets.lcsc.qa.

The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ marks historic firsts for five nations making their World Cup debuts: Uganda, El Salvador, Fiji, Ireland and Zambia. For these teams, the first 48-team edition of the tournament provides the ideal stage to announce themselves on the youth football landscape. Uganda's participation, in particular, represents a historic moment for the nation, as they are competing in their first-ever FIFA tournament at any level. The team secured their spot in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ following their qualification through the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 and a playoff victory over Gambia. "It's every teenager's dream to compete in this tournament. Football means everything to me. Whenever I step onto the pitch, I forget every problem I have. I've been playing football since I was a kid, and until now, I still love to play football. I want to go far in my footballing career to help my family and my community," said right back Elvis Torach. For Coach Elcambio Ssenyondo, leading his team in Qatar represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: "Since they were born, these young boys dream to play on the world's biggest stage, which is the U-17 World Cup. Platforms like these allow young players to showcase their talents so they can get the attention of bigger clubs. It also provides them the competitive experience necessary to progress to the highest levels of the game.” Despite falling 2-1 against Canada, the East African nation achieved a historic milestone: Uganda's first-ever goal scored at a FIFA tournament. In their second match of the tournament, the team drew 1-1 against Chile, and is now set to face France on 11 November, at 3:30pm at the Bader Bilal pitch. “Me and my teammates are not afraid of anything. We are physically and mentally prepared for any challenge coming ahead," said Torach. **media[380453]** “We are facing worthy opponents, but we have the grit, the hunger and zeal to take them on. We are here now and we want to enjoy it as far as we can,” added Coach Ssenyondo. As the first FIFA World Cup™ to feature 48 teams, this is the biggest-ever edition of the youth tournament that saw the likes of Gianluigi Buffon, Luis Figo, Xavi Hernandez, Eden Hazard, Andres Iniesta, Neymar, Ronaldinho, Son Heung-min and Francesco Totti appear on the world stage for the first time. A total of 104 matches are being contested across eight pitches in the Aspire Zone Competition Complex, culminating in the Final on 27 November at Khalifa International Stadium. This marks the first of five consecutive youth tournaments that Qatar will host through 2029. For FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ tickets and tournament information, visit www.roadtoqatar.qa. For all tournament related updates, follow @u17worldcupqa on all major social media platforms.

More than 2,000 people attended the opening day and the second day of the Aspire Academy Fan Zone, launched as part of the festivities surrounding the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.**media[380440]**The Aspire Academy Fan Zone, based in Aspire Park, was officially opened by the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 mascot Boma, alongside legendary coach Bora Milutinovic, the man who inspired the tournament's owl symbol.The Serbian coach is not only the only man in history to lead five different national teams at five consecutive FIFA World Cups; he has also played a significant role in Qatar’s football development and continues to serve in an advisory role at Aspire Academy.**media[380434]**That legacy as a talent scout and mentor is reflected in Boma’s character, a wise desert owl always on the lookout for emerging talent.The Aspire Academy Fan Zone will be open daily from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. until the day of the Under-17 World Cup final on 27 November.**media[380436]**The area will offer a fun and interactive experience for all and a chance to win prizes.Visitors will be able to put their footballing skills to the test across six exciting challenges designed to measure their power, accuracy, agility, and jumping ability—and win prizes.Aspire Academy’s Acting Marketing and Communication Director, Muneera Mohammed Hammam, said it was important for the Academy to mark such a landmark event.**media[380438]**“This FIFA Under-17 World Cup is a moment of history for Aspire Academy, as we are hosting 103 of the 104 matches at the finals,” she said.“This is the first time a single venue like ours has hosted an entire World Cup football tournament.”**media[380444]**“We are proud that all the matches are being played on Aspire Academy pitches, except November 27th’s final, which will be held at the neighbouring Khalifa International Stadium.”“Not only are we hosting this newly expanded event, but we are incredibly proud and excited that the entire Qatar squad for the tournament have been trained at Aspire Academy.”**media[380435]**“Eleven of the players are current student-athletes at the Academy, another six graduated in June, and four more are Aspire Academy-trained players.”“We want everyone coming to watch the matches to enjoy their time at Aspire Academy watching the tournament, and we want them to have some fun as they test their own footballing skills.”**media[380437]**“This Fan Zone promises to be fun for fans of all ages and offers them the chance to walk away with a prize if they can successfully complete all the challenges.”**media[380442]**The 2025 FIFA Under-17 World Cup is the first of five that Qatar will host as the event becomes annual rather than biennial.

There has been an increase in the rates of chronic and non-communicable diseases due to unhealthy lifestyles such as physical inactivity, smoking, obesity, and stress, which led to significant and widespread concerns with serious human and financial consequences for countries and their healthcare systems.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes is becoming the most common chronic and non-communicable disease. The international community celebrates World Diabetes Day on Nov. 14 each year, since it was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007.WHO Representative in Qatar Dr Rayana Bou Haka, said in an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), that around 800 million people are currently diagnosed with diabetes across the globe. She pointed out that the Eastern Mediterranean Region, which includes 22 countries among them the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, has the highest regional prevalence rate of diabetes, standing at 17.6 percent among adults aged between 20 and 79 years.She noted that in this same region, there are nearly 85 million adults, one in every six people, living with diabetes. This number is expected to rise by 92 percent to reach 163 million by 2050, posing an increasing burden in both the short and long term, despite the efforts made in health education, awareness, and the development of medicines and treatment methods.Dr. Bou Haka expressed concern that the region also records the highest rate of diabetes-related deaths, 21.6 percent, among working-age individuals (under 60 years old), specifically between 25 and 60 years. At the same time, about one-third of diabetes cases remain undiagnosed, highlighting major gaps in early detection and patient care, which in turn limits people's ability to live longer, healthier lives.She revealed the extent of diabetes prevalence in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and, in this context, identified the rates for the main complications of the disease: retinopathy (25 percent), kidney disease (23 percent), neuropathy (6 percent), dyslipidemia (56 percent), hypertension (59 percent), ischemic heart disease (25 percent), coronary artery disease (15 percent), and diabetes-related foot complications (6 percent).She pointed out that the proportion of people with diabetes in the Gulf countries ranges between 10 percent and 15 percent of the diagnosed population, noting that in some parts of the world, this figure can reach up to 20 percent. She explained that this variation is due to several factors, including personal and psychological readiness to cope with the disease, lifestyle choices, and unhealthy dietary habits, among others.The WHO Representative in Qatar warned that if the situation continues globally as it is, it will be difficult to achieve the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) by 2030, which aims to reduce chronic diseases by one-third (or 33 percent) in each country.She further noted that if current trends persist, only about 11 percent of that target will be achieved by the stated year, a rate she described as below expectations, emphasizing the need for greater attention to prevention, awareness, early diagnosis, and access to related healthcare services and programs.Dr. Bou Haka noted that the countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region have made some tangible progress, despite the fact that several of them are experiencing crises and wars. However, she pointed out that even in other countries not affected by such conditions, the rate of implementation of programs and guidelines related to diabetes prevention and complication management does not exceed 50 percent. She attributed this mainly to insufficient dissemination of essential knowledge about the disease among patients and their families.The WHO Representative highlighted Qatar's National Diabetes Strategy and its various pillars, particularly those focusing on awareness, prevention programs, and health education. She emphasized the strategy's comprehensive approach, which prioritizes prevention, increasing awareness, improving the quality of healthcare, and enhancing research and information systems.In this context, she referred to Qatar's initiative of dedicating a National Sport Day each year and providing exercise equipment in various areas across the country. She praised the efforts of several national bodies, including the Qatar Diabetes Association, and affirmed that Qatar's healthcare system is advanced, with accessible and integrated services, as well as available diagnostic and treatment options. She also highlighted the continuous encouragement to promote behavioral change, especially among youth.Dr. Bou Haka added that the World Health Organization is working to adopt similar initiatives and to launch a free, open-access online program focused on diabetes education modeled after Qatar's approach. The program aims to raise patients' awareness about early diagnosis, regular follow-up, adherence to medication schedules, and compliance with physicians' instructions.She further explained that for every one dollar spent on diabetes prevention and obesity reduction, countries can save an equivalent of 23 dollars in treatment costs. Similarly, investing one dollar in the prevention of other chronic diseases yields an estimated seven-dollar return in health and economic benefits.Dr. Bou Haka also praised Qatar's support for WHO health programs, noting that this contributes to strengthening targeted services and improving access to treatment. She emphasized the importance of countries facilitating patients' access to medications by engaging in joint drug procurement initiatives to reduce prices and make treatments more affordable.In her interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), WHO Representative in Qatar Dr. Rayana Ahmed Bou Haka pointed out a balance in the rates of diabetes among both men and women, indicating that some studies suggest that complications of the disease are more prevalent in men due to several reasons, especially in terms of type 2 diabetes, when the body cannot use insulin properly or does not produce enough of it, leading to an accumulation of sugar (glucose) in the blood.She emphasized the importance of undergoing medical examinations, especially for those over 35 years of age, even if they do not show symptoms of diabetes or other diseases, given that there are silent diseases with serious complications.The world aspires for 80 percent of people with diabetes and 80 percent of those with hypertension to be diagnosed and aware of their condition by 2030, and for their blood sugar and blood pressure levels to be under control. The goal is also for 60 percent of those over 40 years of age to adhere regularly to their medication, and for 100 percent of people with insulin-dependent type 1 diabetes to have access to insulin, monitoring, and effective disease management, she said.Dr. Bou Haka also stressed that this is a shared responsibility, requiring concerted efforts of governments, institutions and communities, as well as individuals.World Diabetes Day - an annual event that falls on Nov. 14, aims to raise awareness about diabetes, encourage early diagnosis, promote the importance of detecting the disease in its early stages, and provide support to patients and their families, as well as highlight the impact of diabetes on society and the importance of preventing and managing it.

His Excellency Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi met on Tuesday in Tokyo with the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan Akazawa Ryosei.During the meeting, they discussed bilateral and cooperation relations between the two countries in the energy field, and ways to enhance them.HE Minister of State for Energy Affairs also met with senior Japanese energy industry leaders, including Chairman of the Board of Maruben, Masumi Kakinoki, and Managing Executive Officer of Tohoku Electric, Kaoru Hijikata.During the meetings, discussions focused on existing and future cooperation and further strengthening bilateral relations in the energy sector.

The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has announced Fincantieri, one of the world's leading shipbuilding groups, as the Diamond Sponsor for the ninth edition of the show, which will be held under the esteemed patronage of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and hosted and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces. The four-day event is scheduled to take place from Jan. 19 to 22, 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). DIMDEX is positioned as a premier platform for expertise and commercial exchange among leading defence companies, international investors, and key decision-makers. It offers participants exclusive access to the latest technological advancements, next-generation defence systems, and state-of-the-art maritime equipment, enabling them to assess innovations that are shaping the future of global security and defence. Beyond serving as a gateway to advanced solutions in the maritime defence sector, the event will not only highlight Qatar's pivotal role in advancing global defence cooperation, but also create an environment that stimulates investment, innovation, and long-term partnerships across the sector. In addition, DIMDEX 2026 is recognised as a comprehensive forum that fosters high-level discussions and strategic dialogue on critical security challenges arising in an increasingly complex global landscape. The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defence in the presence of HE Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Lt. Gen. (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, and high representatives from the two parties including Qatar Country Manager at Fincantieri Aldo Zizzo. The agreement was signed by Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al Ansari, and SVP Director Sales Naval Vessel at Fincantieri Mauro Manzini. HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces said: "In an era defined by rapid change and technological advancement, Qatar remains steadfast in its commitment to shaping the defence and security landscape of tomorrow with foresight and determination. The challenges of the future call for relentless innovation and adaptability, and through sustained investment in advanced technologies, the exchange of knowledge, and strategic cooperation with our international partners, we aim to strengthen collective capabilities and enhance global stability. Our vision is to help build a safer, more resilient world defined by economic growth, progress and peace." Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al Ansari, Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee, said: "We are thrilled to once again welcome Fincantieri as our Diamond Sponsor for DIMDEX 2026, a partnership that truly elevates the exhibition's stature." "Their consistent support and participation are a testament to the exhibition's growing significance as a premier platform for maritime defence and security, embodying a shared vision for advancing global maritime capabilities. Fincantieri's global leadership in naval shipbuilding brings invaluable expertise and innovation to DIMDEX, further enriching the experience for all attendees and contributing significantly to the dialogue on future naval advancements," he added. CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri Pierroberto Folgiero stated: "We are honoured to renew our participation in DIMDEX as a Diamond Sponsor, reaffirming our commitment to supporting one of the most prestigious events in the global defence and security landscape." "In a time marked by evolving geopolitical dynamics and emerging challenges, DIMDEX stands out as a vital platform for fostering dialogue, building strategic partnerships, and promoting innovation across the maritime domain and beyond. Fincantieri's longstanding collaboration with the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces remains one of our most significant international engagements, rooted in shared objectives and mutual trust," Folgiero said. "The naval construction programme and the local after-sales infrastructure we have developed in Qatar are tangible expressions of this partnership, reflecting a common vision for technological excellence and operational capability. By actively contributing to DIMDEX 2026, we continue to play a key role in shaping a resilient and forward-looking defence ecosystem, while strengthening our ties with the State of Qatar and the broader international community," he added. Fincantieri has delivered a total of seven state-of-the-art naval vessels to the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, supported by comprehensive In-Service Support, Integrated Logistic Support, and Industrial and operative training programmes for the crew. This enduring partnership reflects Fincantieri's commitment to long-term collaboration and operational excellence and stands as a cornerstone of its strategic presence in the region. With over 230 years of history and more than 7,000 ships built, Fincantieri is a leader in the construction of cruise ships, naval and offshore vessels, and stands out for its extensive experience in the development of underwater solutions, thanks to its integrated industrial structure capable of managing and coordinating all activities related to the commercial, defence, and dual-use sectors. From the very beginning, DIMDEX has played a pivotal role in shaping the global maritime defence and security landscape. The show continues its mission to provide a premier platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and fostering strategic dialogues essential for bolstering security and defence at both national and international levels.

Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Japan's ORIX Corporation (ORIX) announced Tuesday that they have entered into an agreement to launch a commitment-based private equity (PE) fund (OQCI Fund LP). The total fund size will be the yen equivalent of USD 2.5 billion, with QIA committed to contributing USD 1 billion of the fund's capitalThe fund will invest in Japanese companies, primarily targeting business succession, privatization of listed companies, and carve-outs (the transfer of business divisions or subsidiaries from large corporations), with an enterprise value investment size of at least 30 billion yen (approx. 200 million USD) per investment.This marks the first time that ORIX has launched a fund that welcomes capital from an international third-party investor for domestic private equity investment in Japan. It is also the first time QIA has invested in a domestic private equity fund focused solely on the Japanese market.Investment decisions for the fund will be made by OQCI GP Ltd. (the GP), which will act as the general partner of the fund. ORIX and QIA will be the only two investors (LPs) in the fund, committed to contributing 60% and 40% of the capital, respectively. ORIX will provide the GP with introductions to potential investment targets, post-investment monitoring, and advisory support for portfolio companies.CEO of QIA Mohammed Saif Al Sowaidi said: "Japan represents a core component of QIA's long-term private equity strategy. With disciplined valuations, a deep pipeline of governance-driven deals, and growing global investor interest, we see this as an exceptional opportunity to partner with best-in-class Japanese businesses to create value. We are pleased to be the first international partner in ORIX's inaugural private equity fund in Japan in its 60-year history. This partnership will enable both parties to capitalize on market opportunities and support ORIX's ambition to build a thriving asset management initiative.""We are honored to enter into this partnership with Qatar Investment Authority today. QIA is a significant and influential sovereign wealth fund, and we are pleased to be able to help it increase its investments in the Japanese economy. ORIX has built up considerable expertise in private equity investment in Japan," Representative Executive Officer, Chairman and CEO of ORIX Makoto Inoue said."This partnership is the next logical step on the path to improving the corporate value of companies with high-growth potential. Moreover, it will contribute to Japan's broader industrial development. Increasing the portion of third-party funds in ORIX's investment portfolio will enhance capital efficiency and help further grow our asset management business. This partnership is a key strategic move to help realize our long-term growth strategy," he added.Following the guidelines published by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the request for management reforms by the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Japan's M&A market has been seeing a surge in listed companies going private, corporate reorganizations, and carve-outs. As deal sizes become larger, and against the backdrop of Japan's stable economy and society, an increasing amount of foreign capital has been flowing into the market.ORIX and QIA will together aim to enhance the corporate value of companies with high-growth potential and contribute to the advancement of Japanese industry. They will also explore opportunities for collaboration across other fields.