Qatar took part in the 20th Korea-Middle East Co-operation Forum, hosted in Seoul, South Korea, under the theme ‘Korea and the Middle East: Past, Present and Future Trajectories’. Qatar was represented at the forum by HE the Minister of State for International Co-operation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad. HE the Director of Diplomatic Institute at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulaziz bin Mohammed al-Horr, also participated.In her speech, HE al-Misnad said that the forum is being held at a critical moment marked by increasing global challenges and rapid shifts in regional and international dynamics, pointing out that the Middle East, in particular, continues to bear acute humanitarian and political crises, including those in Palestine, Lebanon, and Sudan.She emphasised that these crises transcend borders, impacting both regional and global stability, while underscoring the urgent need to enhance dialogue, co-operation, and decisive action, and strengthen security, stability, and sustainable development for the benefit of all. HE al-Misnad expressed Qatar’s appreciation for the forum as a vital bridge built over two decades of meaningful dialogue and co-operation between the Middle East and Korea, with a focus on co-operation and fostering partnerships in diplomatic, trade, economic, and cultural fields.She also noted that the forum has become a key platform for strengthening relations, praising the preliminary signing of the free trade agreement (FTA) between Korea and the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC). She described it as a major turning point toward deeper economic integration and mutual growth between the two regions. This partnership can support innovation and investment in sustainability, and promote peace and prosperity for both regions and the world, she added.HE al-Misnad reaffirmed Qatar’s foreign policy, which is based on solid principles of international law and co-operation. She reiterated Qatar’s commitment to the principles of mediation, dialogue for peaceful solutions, sustainable development, and the promotion of minority rights.She said that Qatar’s humanitarian efforts are extensive, providing vital assistance in conflict zones and addressing long-term vulnerabilities in areas affected by complex emergencies. She also expressed belief that global challenges require collective solutions, stressing that Qatar is always ready to contribute to this shared mission.HE al-Misnad called for making the forum a model of the strength of dialogue and co-operation, emphasising the potential to turn challenges into opportunities and build a future characterised by resilience, inclusivity, and shared success.First Launched in 2003, the Korea-Middle East Co-operation Forum is a platform that brings together prominent figures from the public and private sectors to enhance both sides’ relations across various fields. The forum has been held annually in Korea and the Middle East countries alternately.This year, the forum is discussing key topics through three main sessions entitled ‘Harnessing Korea-Middle East Co-operation During Time of Uncertainty’, ‘Emerging Technologies: New Areas of Co-operation between Korea and the Middle East’, and ‘Korea and The Middle East: Towards Deeper Educational, Cultural, and People to People Links’.