The private sector should take the lead in national development in the coming period, as the government seeks to enhance the business environment and foster strategic public-private partnerships, the National Development Forum has emphasised.
HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and President of the National Planning Council Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, participated in the National Development Forum Tuesday, along with Their Excellencies the board members of the council and other ministers.
HE Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Qatar’s significant achievements over the past years, which have positively impacted the lives of its people. He attributed these successes to the clear and dedicated vision of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, who has continued this progress with a comprehensive vision that has positioned Qatar as a leader in various fields.
He noted that the first National Development Plan began in 2008 with the launch of Qatar National Vision 2030, focusing on the country’s improvement and the well-being of its people. He emphasised the continuous effort to involve the community in discussions about development needs. While Qatar has made great strides, particularly in infrastructure and public services, especially during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the key question now is: What lies beyond the World Cup?
HE Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged the ongoing challenges and the government’s efforts to address them. However, he stressed the need for greater private sector involvement in operating services, businesses, and the economy, while the government focuses on supervision and regulation. To this end, the government is implementing effective measures and launching initiatives to strengthen the role of the private sector in Qatar’s economy and to enhance public-private partnerships across various sectors. He also noted the challenges in the short, medium, and long term and the necessity of reprioritizing goals to achieve these targets.
Reflecting on Qatar’s history, he pointed out that the 1990s were a challenging period, but the country’s leadership made decisive decisions based on a strong belief in Qatar’s potential. This led to significant expansions in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, positioning Qatar as the world’s largest LNG producer—a key driver of development in all other economic sectors.
Meanwhile, local production and manufacturing remain priorities for the government, with Qatari companies encouraged to produce and export goods to boost national income. Additionally, the tourism sector has seen substantial growth despite challenges, contributing around 10% to the GDP in 2024—almost double the 2022 figures.
HE the Prime Minister further emphasized the need for greater community involvement to implement ambitious plans in education, housing, technology, health, energy, and other sectors, while the government continues to open more opportunities for private sector participation.
The forum featured a panel discussion with HE the Governor of the Central Bank Sheikh Bandar bin Mohamed bin Saoud al-Thani, HE the Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari, HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al-Attiya, and HE the Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal al-Thani.
Their Excellencies reviewed steps and plans to further enhance the private sector’s efficiency within the national economy and discussed incentives and support provided to local and international investors to encourage business enterprises in the country.
The event was attended by representatives of major public and private business organizations, senior government officials, media personnel, and prominent business leaders.
