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Every country’s founding holiday is a special one for its people: whether they have much to celebrate or much to fix, every year brings a date when they can reflect on the past and think about how to build a better future. Qatar’s National Day is different. Of course the citizens of this state mark the day with all manner of events and expressions of pride and appreciation, and Qataris have an awful lot for which to be thankful, including unparallelled prosperity, sky-high standards of living, and rock-solid stability. The difference is that in Qatar’s case, citizens of other countries are just as excited.Why? Because this country has made it a priority to be a driving force for dialogue, fairness, empathy, and peaceful diplomacy. Because so many people from so many other places feel so safe and welcome here. Because so many others who have never even been to Qatar have benefited from its activist and hopeful foreign policy and/or its generous and helpful humanitarian programs. Because so many wars and other crises have been ended or alleviated by Qatari influence.    For Lebanese expatriates like me, the State of Qatar and its people have been nothing but supportive. Some expats have arrived here with nothing, their homes and livelihoods damaged or destroyed by foreign bombs or domestic mismanagement. Others have arrived as students, young managers looking for career advancement, tech geniuses plying all manner of wizardry, or investors hunting for proverbial unicorns. All are welcomed with care, compassion, and respect, making this country feel just like home – but better.Frankly, there has never been a nation-state quite like today’s Qatar, a place so well-run and so well-disposed that newcomers don’t just feel grateful – we feel just as loyal to Qatar and HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, as the Qataris themselves.       HH the Amir deserves massive credit for the phenomenon described above. Like his father before him, His Highness the Amir has invested his own personal prestige in ensuring that Qatar retains its independence, and that it uses that freedom of action for good. A thousand congratulations, then for the emir and all of his subjects: you have a built a truly special country that inspires love and devotion from all who embrace it.               

Today, we come together not only to celebrate our heritage, but to reflect on the role Qatar continues to play in a complex and interconnected world. National Day is a moment of pride, rooted in history, values and identity. But it is also a moment of perspective. A reminder that Qatar’s strength has never been defined by size alone, but by clarity of purpose, consistency of leadership, and an unwavering belief in dialogue over division.Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Qatar has continued to take responsibility beyond its borders. In a world marked by uncertainty, Qatar has chosen engagement over isolation, diplomacy over confrontation, and bridge-building over silence. This principled approach has earned trust and placed Qatar at the centre of international dialogue, mediation and co-operation.Throughout 2025, Qatar has reaffirmed its role as a credible and constructive global partner. From diplomatic efforts and humanitarian engagement to international forums, cultural exchange and global sports events, Qatar has consistently used its platform to bring people together.These initiatives are not about visibility alone, they are about contribution, responsibility and long-term impact. Sport, culture and global gatherings have become powerful tools for connection. They create shared experiences that transcend borders, languages and politics. Qatar understands this and continues to invest in events and initiatives that unite rather than divide, that invite participation rather than exclusion.What makes Qatar truly unique, however, is not only its international role, but its people. Today, more than 100 nationalities live and work side by side in Qatar. Different cultures and backgrounds, contributing daily to the life of this nation. This diversity is not a challenge to identity; it is a strength built on mutual respect. We are proud of our origins, and equally proud of what we are building together. Qatar is a place where tradition and modernity coexist and where ambition is matched by humility. It is where the future is shaped not by abandoning our roots, but by standing firmly on them.As we look ahead, we do so with confidence. Guided by leadership that values stability, dialogue and long-term vision. Supported by a society that understands that progress is a shared responsibility.On Qatar National Day December 18, we celebrate who we are and who we are becoming. We remain proud of our origins and united in diversity. Together, we are shaping what comes next. Qatar is more than a country. It is home. Happy Qatar National Day! 

France’s ambassador to Qatar Arnaud Pescheux has stressed that Qatar National Day (QND) is a meaningful occasion to celebrate the nation’s identity and the spirit of unity that brings its people together.In his statement to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), the envoy pointed out that Qatar has become a key player for dialogue and mediation, noting that Doha is now a world capital of international diplomacy due its active foreign policy and peace initiatives.Pescheux also noted that Qatar has spared no effort in many different crises such as Ukraine, Afghanistan or Sudan and foremost Gaza.France and Qatar are both strongly committed to peace, he added, describing both countries as balancing powers that are committed to respecting international law and upholding the international order in every crisis.He also noted that Qatar is witnessing a wide-ranging renaissance across various sectors."I am impressed by its ability to translate ambition into concrete progress, guided by the long-term strategy of the Qatar National Vision 2030," the envoy stated.On the trajectory of the bilateral relations, he said that ties between France and Qatar are historically-rooted in all areas, including diplomacy, economy, defense and security, culture, and sport.The strategic partnership between the two countries has grown considerably in recent years, Pescheux added, especially after His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani's visit in February 2024."Qatar is home for more than 6000 French citizens and I know they share a deep sense of belonging," he said, emphasising that relations between the two peoples are based on mutual respect and joint co-operation."Three words could encapsulate the French-Qatari ties: strategic partnership, trust, and friendship,” the envoy said. “You can count on me to strengthen our ties even further in the near future."  

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

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Majid bin Mohammed Al Ansari, participated in a panel discussion hosted by the University of Oxford under the title "Diplomacy and Mediation in a Contested World."The panel addressed contemporary challenges in conflict resolution and examined the role of states and mediators in promoting international peace and security.Speaking during the session, Dr. Al Ansari underscored the importance of adhering to principles and consistency in addressing international issues, noting that the last comprehensive peace agreement was signed nearly a decade ago in Colombia — reflecting a broader decline in the effectiveness of peaceful solutions in recent years.He stressed that the absence of accountability, particularly regarding Israeli violations, continues to fuel tensions and threatens both regional and international stability.Dr. Al Ansari highlighted dialogue and mediation as essential tools for resolving conflicts, citing Qatar's distinguished record in mediating complex disputes. He referred to Qatar's role in facilitating the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the peace accord between the United States and the Taliban, and its mediation between the Government of Colombia and the self-proclaimed Gaitanista Army.He further noted Qatar's humanitarian efforts in reuniting Ukrainian and Russian children with their families, as part of the State's ongoing initiatives to alleviate the human impact of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed that Qatar's mediation efforts stem from a deep sense of responsibility and a firm belief in building sustainable partnerships for peace. He emphasized that these efforts are producing tangible results on the ground.

A new session in the Shura Council's historic journey begins tomorrow, Tuesday, marking another milestone in more than five decades of national parliamentary development. The Council has consistently enjoyed the support and guidance of the wise leadership, reflecting its vital legislative and oversight role and its close cooperation with the esteemed government in advancing Qatar's renaissance, sustainable development, and the aspirations of its citizens for a dignified and prosperous future.The next phase of the Shura Council's successful journey — which spans over half a century — begins with the first regular session of the second legislative term, corresponding to the 54th annual session. This new session will be held with a developmental vision and comprehensive institutional preparedness, in line with the Council's evolving role in national governance.His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani issued Amiri Decision No. 42 of 2025 on October 9, appointing members of the Shura Council. The decision took effect from the date of issuance and was published in the Official Gazette.On the same day, His Highness the Amir received Their Excellencies the members of the Shura Council at the Amiri Diwan, where His Highness the Amir welcomed them and wished them success in performing their duties. HH the Amir emphasized the Council's role in supporting the State's efforts to achieve sustainable development and to further the comprehensive renaissance witnessed by Qatar across all fields.For their part, the members of the Shura Council expressed their sincere thanks and appreciation to HH the Amir for his continued trust and support. They affirmed their commitment to work with national responsibility and dedication to serve the homeland and citizens, in line with Qatar's vision and the aspirations of its people for continued progress and prosperity.The Shura Council, as formed under HH the Amir's decision, consists of 49 members. Article 77 of the country's Permanent Constitution was amended to state that: "The Shura Council shall consist of no fewer than forty-five members, and the appointment of members shall be issued by an Amiri Decision."The new session follows the constitutional amendments that were unanimously approved by the Council last November and subsequently endorsed through a popular referendum, which saw an approval rate of 90.6% of valid votes. This milestone represents a genuine embodiment of national unity, the strengthening of the social fabric, and the consolidation of the principles of Shura deeply rooted in Qatari society, paving the way for continued growth and achievement.The 2024 constitutional amendments stand among the most significant accomplishments of the previous legislative term. They included several amendments, additions, and deletions to the Constitution, all designed to serve the State's supreme interests and reinforce the values of justice, equality, and civic responsibility among all members of Qatari society.Among the major achievements of the Shura Council in its previous term was the approval of its internal regulations, which govern its operations, define procedures for sessions, decision-making, and committee work, and enhance the Council's overall efficiency.The new internal regulations, consisting of 244 articles divided into eight chapters, bolster the Council's legislative and oversight authority and define the mechanisms for exercising its powers in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws.The first legislative term (2021-2025) witnessed extensive parliamentary activity, including 138 regular sessions, two extraordinary sessions, 312 committee meetings, the discussion of 84 draft laws, 22 requests for discussion, 25 proposals, 21 hearings, and 185 internal and external parliamentary engagements, as well as 417 bilateral meetings.These figures reflect the substantial institutional efforts of the General Secretariat and the Council's expanding role in legislation, oversight, and parliamentary diplomacy.Meanwhile, the General Secretariat of the Shura Council has finalized all technical and organizational preparations for the launch of the first regular session of the second legislative term tomorrow. The preparations included equipping the main hall and meeting rooms with the latest technology, ensuring the aesthetic and functional readiness of the Council's facilities, and confirming full technical and logistical preparedness.In this regard, His Excellency Secretary-General of the Shura Council Nayef bin Mohammed Al Mahmoud stated in a meeting held on Sunday with representatives of the local media that the opening session of the new term will be followed by a procedural session, including the swearing-in and the reading of Amiri Decree No. 98 of 2025, inviting the Shura Council to convene its first regular session of the second legislative term, corresponding to the 54th annual session. The session will then proceed with the election of the Speaker and Vice-Speaker.He added that the General Secretariat has tested all technical and logistical systems, and that legal and technical teams are fully ready to ensure the smooth conduct of the session.His Excellency Al Mahmoud emphasized that, with more than fifty years of experience, the Council is fully prepared for this new phase and continues to operate with high professionalism and discipline to ensure a successful start befitting its prestigious stature and legislative and oversight responsibilities.Thanks to its active participation in various regional and international parliamentary forums, the Shura Council has attained a prominent position and enjoys wide respect and recognition. It currently holds several key positions, including membership in the Executive Committee of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) — the highest UN-affiliated parliamentary body — as well as membership in several of its standing committees.His Excellency Al Mahmoud highlighted that the General Secretariat plays a vital role in supporting Council members and enabling them to effectively perform their parliamentary and diplomatic duties. He underlined that external parliamentary work has evolved beyond symbolic participation to become a strategic activity aimed at achieving tangible outcomes that serve national interests and strengthen the Council's international partnerships.As a result of its active role in parliamentary diplomacy, the Shura Council has established distinguished relations with counterparts in other countries. These ties, reinforced through mutual visits between the general secretariats, enable the exchange of parliamentary experiences and expertise, including legal and technical knowledge.In this context, one of the most prominent upcoming parliamentary events to be hosted by the Council is the Parliamentary Forum, which will be held in collaboration with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha this November, in cooperation with the United Nations. Additionally, the Council will host the meetings of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly in December and will also participate in the summit of heads of GCC parliaments, which will later be hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain.Such relationships, mutual visits, and various parliamentary events reflect the growing international confidence in the Shura Council's experience, its leading institutional role, and its prominent presence at both the national and international levels, guided by the visions and messages contained in the speeches delivered by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the opening of the Council's sessions.As part of its continuous modernization and development efforts, the General Secretariat of the Shura Council has begun implementing a digital transformation initiative within its comprehensive institutional plan and its 2025-2030 strategy, which is set to launch at the end of this year.The General Secretariat has developed this strategy based on Qatar National Vision 2030 and the key messages from the speeches delivered by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the openings of the Shura Council's sessions. The aim is to enhance efficiency, digitize procedures, develop human capacities, and improve administrative and technical performance in line with the aspirations of the coming phase.The important and distinguished role-played and consistently upheld by the Council in promoting the image of the State of Qatar at regional and international forums is widely recognized. The Council also articulates the country's steadfast positions and defends issues of concern to the Arab and Islamic nations, foremost among them the Palestinian cause.Throughout its successive sessions, the Council has demonstrated its vital legislative role in serving the interests of the Qatari people and meeting their aspirations through the body of legislation and laws it discusses, approves, and amends within the framework of the rule of law and in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Permanent Constitution of the State of Qatar.Building on all these achievements, members will continue to carry out their duties in the new legislative session, keeping in mind the interests of citizens and the higher interests of the nation, under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.The history of the Shura Council dates back to 1972, when the amended Interim Basic Law was issued on April 19 of the same year to regulate the structures and institutions of the modern state, including the Shura Council, which initially had 20 members.

The Argentine Embassy in Doha recently hosted its third edition of ‘Art, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy Exhibition’, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange as a key theme driving the relationship between Qatar and Argentina. Speaking to reporters at the event, Argentine ambassador Guillermo L Nicolas underlined the exhibition’s role in setting the stage for the ‘Qatar-Argentina Year of Culture 2025’, which features numerous events in Doha and Buenos Aires. He said the event aims to connect the traditions of both nations, showcasing elements such as intangible cultural heritage and artworks, including paintings created by several diplomats and their wives. Nicolas cited the recent exhibition of Latin-American art at the National Museum of Qatar as a successful precursor, describing it as “the gem of our cultural year.” The exhibition, which concluded on July 19, featured around 170 works by more than 100 pioneering and contemporary Latin American artists, including iconic pieces from Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Wifredo Lam, Fernando Botero, and Antonio Berni. He said that cultural exploration uncovered unexpected common ground, leading them to realise they are “much closer than we believe” through shared aspects like traditional garments, a love for horses, and the importance of family. The envoy pointed out that cultural diplomacy is a main element not only for showcasing national identity but also for improving international relations. He said it serves as the essential foundation for international relations, asserting it is the primary method to foster mutual understanding and to create a network through which political and economic ties can be successfully developed. He noted that despite the vast geographical distance, cultural comparison reveals deep similarities. According to Nicolas, the year-long initiative of Qatar Museums is designed to solidify the bond forged during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which saw an influx of approximately 45,000 Argentinian visitors. “We have an amazing connection between the two peoples during the World Cup,” he recounted, adding that the cultural initiative is “a good opportunity to continue this relation.” The envoy said such initiative aligns with Qatar’s vision of becoming a global cultural hub, an effort he lauded, noting Qatar’s “wonderful position in the cultural world.” He suggested that sports should be viewed as part of cultural tradition, as the Year of Culture facilitates the exchange of artistic expressions, allowing Qatari art to be showcased in Argentina and Argentinian culture to be displayed in Doha. Nicolas added that he sees the 2025 initiative as “just one more milestone” in the already strong political, economic, and trade relationship between the two countries.

Doha Forum, Qatar's flagship platform promoting diplomacy, dialogue, and diversity, co-hosted a high-level panel discussion titled "Peace and Development: A Shared Path to Stability" at the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations (UN) in New York Saturday, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly High-Level Week. The event addressed the persistence of conflicts and wars around the world that continue to devastate communities, displace millions, and erode the foundations of development. They also discussed how fragile or uneven development often fuels instability and prolongs cycles of conflict. The message is clear: there is no peace without development, and no development without peace. The event convened global leaders and practitioners to explore the deep interdependence between peace, humanitarian response, and sustainable development. Discussions highlighted how mediation efforts, humanitarian interventions, and long-term investments in education, health, infrastructure, and climate resilience must work hand-in-hand to secure stability. Speakers examined how humanitarian action can be better linked to development planning in fragile states, the role of regional organizations in bridging peace and development, how mediation outcomes can translate into tangible improvements in people's lives, and how investments in education, healthcare, and climate resilience can reduce the risk of conflict. For her part, Her Excellency Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad emphasized Qatar's long-standing commitment to mediation, humanitarian response, and international development assistance worldwide. During the opening remarks, Her Excellency said, "There can be no sustainable development without peace, and no lasting peace without development. By linking humanitarian action with long-term development, we can prevent conflict and build lasting stability." For her part, General Manager of Doha Forum, Maha Al Kuwari said, "Doha Forum is proud to co-host this timely discussion during UNGA High-Level Week. Our strength lies in convening diverse voices to advance diplomacy, dialogue and cooperation. Recent events in our region highlight the urgent need to protect civilians and uphold sovereignty, while investing in a more stable and inclusive future. These conversations will continue at Doha Forum 2025, where we remain committed to fostering collective action on the world's most pressing challenges." By convening diverse international and regional voices, the event reinforced Qatar's role as a convener of dialogue and practical solutions for global crises. The outcomes will also inform the conversations at Doha Forum 2025, taking place on 6–7 December in Doha under the theme "Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress." Doha Forum is a global platform for dialogue, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, business executives, civil society representatives, and thought leaders to exchange ideas and drive solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time. Guided by the values of integrity, inclusivity, and innovation, Doha Forum promotes open dialogue and diverse perspectives to foster mutual understanding and collective progress. The most recent edition of Doha Forum, held in December 2024 under the theme "The Innovation Imperative," welcomed over 5,000 participants from 162 countries, including more than 350 speakers across two days.