Qatar

The Embassy of Angola in Doha marked Sunday the 49th anniversary day of the Republic of Angola in a celebration hosted by ambassador Antonio Coelho Ramos da Cruz.Qatar's Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohamed bin Ali al-Mannai and Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Department of Protocol director ambassador Ibrahim Fakhro, African Affairs Department acting director Khalifa al-Mahmoud al-Sherif, and other dignitaries were present.The Angolan ambassador appreciated the excellent Qatar-Angola relations and the growing and effective role of Qatar in making peace in the region and its ongoing efforts to arrive at peaceful settlement of a number of key regional disputes."Qatar is a hub of regional and international politics and diplomacy. Like Qatar, Angola is also one of the political hubs of sub-Saharan Africa, where its President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, as Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa, a mandate given by the African Union, has been developing a series of initiatives limited to the Great Lakes Region and extended to all areas of the African continent where situations of insecurity and conflict persist."Within the framework of Angola's strategic vision for attracting investment to the country, Qatar is a great potential economic partner in the GCC region due to its high level of development and great capacity to transform oil and gas revenues into the driving force behind its economy and the country's multifaceted development."Bilateral cooperation between the Angola and Qatar has evolved significantly in recent years, based on the cooperation agreements and protocols signed during the official visit of President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço to Qatar, in September 2019, during which His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad aI-Thani, encouraged Qatari business people to invest in the different sectors of the Angolan economy."

Under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change on Sunday launched its 2024-2030 strategy, which was prepared under the slogan "Together towards a sustainable environment for a better future". The new strategy was lunched in the presence of a number of Sheikhs, Ministers and officials in entities related to environmental work. In his speech on this occasion, HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, said that the launch of the strategy represents a pivotal step towards the commitment to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030, especially since the world today faces unprecedented environmental challenges, which makes the ministry's role essential in leading the sustainability sector within the third national development strategy. He added that within the framework of a comprehensive and sustainable approach to addressing contemporary environmental issues, and benefiting from previous lessons, the state has set a set of targets that reflect its vision for a sustainable environmental future, primarily enhancing sustainability practices and cut 25% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, restoring 30% of the area of environmentally affected natural resources, protecting 30% of island and coastal areas, and preserving 17 endemic and endangered species. His Excellency explained that achieving these goals is part of the ministry's comprehensive efforts to preserve biodiversity, so more than 30 initiatives and more than 100 projects have been developed to achieve the desired goals and sustain them in the long term, expressing in this context his thanks and appreciation to the partners for their contributions and cooperation during the previous stages, and his aspiration for this cooperation to continue in the next stage, reflecting the joint commitment to achieving national goals. He also pointed out that the ministry's strategic vision aims to achieve a sustainable and balanced environment with development, and capable of adapting to climate change, by focusing on protecting the environment and preserving natural resources through joint institutional and community cooperation, supporting an effective regulatory framework, and enhancing public environmental awareness relying on four main axes. The first axis, he explained, is "Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change", which is the core of the ministry's work through protecting the environment and natural reserves; comprehensive management of hazardous radioactive and chemical materials; and combating climate change, while promoting environmental sustainability practices that preserve natural resources for future generations. The second axis, "Innovation and Digital Transformation", aims to enhance research and development, and find innovative solutions that increase the efficiency of the Ministry's activities that face environmental challenges, with a focus on digital transformation to support the sustainability of environmental activities, His Excellency said. The third axis, "Governance," focuses on strengthening environmental legislation and policies, and building modern legal frameworks that ensure commitment to implementing standards while accurately and effectively following up on project implementation and ensuring accountability and responsibility for the environment, said HE the Minister. The fourth axis, "Sustainable Institutional Development," seeks to enhance institutional capabilities, community cooperation, and raise environmental awareness to ensure effective participation in achieving national goals, he added. HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change said that launching this strategy is the beginning of a new journey towards achieving ambitious goals, protecting the environment and promoting sustainability, all of which are responsibilities that fall on everyone's shoulders, and can only be achieved through joint work and strong commitment. The vision of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's strategy (2024-2030) is to provide a sustainable environment that is balanced with development, capable of adapting to climate change, and working to deliver a message of protecting the environment and preserving its natural resources through joint institutional and community cooperation and with the support of an effective regulatory framework, and enhancing public environmental awareness. The Ministry's strategy carries a set of values, including: responsibility, commitment, efficiency, flexibility, proactivity, cooperation, transparency, innovation, and sustainability, in order to achieve its main results, which are: protecting the environment and biodiversity by protecting, monitoring, and enhancing environmental elements, ensuring the optimal and sustainable use of environmental resources, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring the comprehensive management of hazardous radioactive and chemical materials. The strategy seeks to ensure effective management of climate change through mitigation and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, adaptation, partnership and cooperation, spreading public awareness, enhancing resilience and fortification, as well as promoting environmental sustainability practices through support and supervision of environmental sustainability measures, including the circular economy, adopting green development methods and energy conservation. The strategy also aims to protect, monitor and enhance environmental elements, ensure optimal use of natural resources, preserve and protect biodiversity and terrestrial and marine ecosystems, integrated management of chemicals and hazardous waste, radiation protection and pollution reduction. It also aims to study climate change, support and implement innovative solutions, take effective measures to mitigate the impact of climate change, develop measures to adapt to future climate change, and ensure their effective implementation with relevant authorities, in addition to promoting the circular economy, reusing resources and waste, promoting the principle of environmental sustainability and investing in the components of green development, and finally encouraging energy conservation, the use of renewable energy and the application of the principle of sustainability in infrastructure and land use.

Over 40 cycling athletes and enthusiasts from Qatar and Morocco gathered Sunday in the historic heart of Marrakesh, kicking off the second annual CultuRide cycling tour in the presence of HE Chairperson of Qatar Museums Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani, HE Minister of State for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, Qatar Cycling Federation President Dr. Mohammed bin Jeham Al Kuwari, former Moroccan Olympic hurdles champion and Vice President of the International Olympic Committee Nawal El Moutawakel, and other senior officials from both countries.This eagerly awaited event, a flagship of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, highlights the friendship through an inspiring journey across Morocco's diverse landscapes.Led by well-known Qatari entrepreneur and athlete Ali bin Towar Al Kuwari, CultuRide: Morocco embodies the Year of Culture initiative's mission of deepening international ties through shared experiences. From November 1622, cyclists will cross over 600 kilometers of Morocco's famed landmarks and hidden gems and meet local communities along the way.Al Kuwari noted, "CultuRide captures the essence of the Years of Culture initiative by creating meaningful connections through shared exploration. Each stop along the route from cities to secluded villages-offers an intimate view of Morocco's heritage, culture, and traditions, affirming our belief that these shared experiences build the strongest bonds between people, communities, and countries."At the start line, Qatar Cycling Federation President Dr. Mohammed bin Jeham Al Kuwari, who is taking part in the tour, expressed his excitement about the upcoming journey, saying, "After last year's incredible trip in Indonesia, returning for CultuRide in Morocco is a privilege. This route is more challenging, but it brings us closer as a team and enriches our cultural understanding in profound ways."The seven-day tour will take riders from iconic destinations like Marrakesh and Tangier to traditional Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains. Each stop has been thoughtfully curated to highlight Morocco's history, arts, and people, aligning with the Year of Culture's mission to promote cross-cultural exchange.Beyond the athletic feat, CultuRide offers participants immersive experiences, including hands-on workshops and personal encounters with Moroccan residents. Throughout the journey, local Moroccan cyclists will join the tour, sharing unique insights into their communities and traditions, and providing an invaluable local perspective.As a centerpiece of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, CultuRide celebrates the power of cultural exchange through sport, reinforcing the enduring friendship between Qatar and Morocco while showcasing how shared journeys can build understanding and create lasting memories.

A delegation from the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) recently hosted a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 knowledge transfer event with counterparts from Morocco, who are expected to co-host the 2030 edition of the tournament along with Spain and Portugal.Held in Marrakech, Morocco on the sidelines of the Qatar Africa Business Forum as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, the event outlined key areas of Qatar’s preparations and delivery for the tournament, as well as key challenges and lessons learned throughout the road to 2022.A host of topics were covered during the workshop, including key achievements, tournament operations, host country infrastructure and operations, tournament experience, workforce, volunteers, enabling laws and more, a SC statement said Sunday.Attendees from Morocco included representatives of the Morocco 2030 bid team, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Sonarges, ONCF, ONDA and a number of ministries and stakeholders helping prepare for the event.Engineer Ghanim al-Kuwari, SC deputy director general for Technical Services, said: “Ever since we bid for the FIFA World Cup, we have envisioned it as being a tournament for Qatar, the Arab world and the entire Middle East and North Africa region. And while we are proud that in 2022 we were able to showcase the best of our culture and people to the world, our vision for a regional tournament does not end there, but also extends to ensuring that wherever we can, Arab and Muslim countries benefit from our experience. Gatherings such as this event embody this sentiment and the regional legacy of Qatar 2022, and we look forward to continued collaboration with our Moroccan counterparts to ensure the success of their hosting experience.”Mouad Hajji, general coordinator of the Morocco 2030 Bid Team, said: “We are very grateful to our Qatari colleagues for organising this insightful and valuable knowledge transfer session on how Qatar delivered the best FIFA World Cup ever. From planning through to delivery and experience, we benefitted tremendously from learning about how Qatar was able to organise the event with such great success, the challenges faced and lessons learned. We look forward to continued and fruitful cooperation between us, and have no doubt that this is only the start of a long and collaborative road between the two countries as we rapidly approach 2030.”The FIFA World Cup 2030 will be held across 20 host cities in Morocco, Spain and Portugal, with anniversary matches in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. It will be the first FIFA World Cup to take place in North Africa, the second to take place in the Arab world and the second to take place in Africa since 2010.In 2022, Qatar hosted the most compact edition of the FIFA World Cup in modern history. From record-breaking attendance and football statistics, through to unique cultural experiences and events, Qatar 2022 was the most successful edition of the tournament. It set new benchmarks for the mega-events and sports industry and provided a blueprint for future hosts on how to organise such large-scale events sustainably, the statement added.

The Shura Council participated in the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change which concluded Sunday in Baku, Azerbaijan.Shura Council members HE Nasser bin Mohammed al-Nuaimi and HE Nasser bin Mutarrif al-Humaidi represented the Shura Council in the two-day conference.In his opening remarks before the first session titled: "Making climate commitments a reality: parliaments' role in raising mitigation ambition and implementing nationally determined contributions", HE al-Nuaimi shed the light on Qatar's role in backing climate efforts through executing clear-eyed policies based on the Qatar National Vision 2030, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).He noted the ambitious projects Qatar has launched in clean energy, highlighting that these projects are the largest renewable energy initiatives in the region, which help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and significantly reduce carbon emissions, underscoring the State's unwavering efforts in advancing carbon capture and storage technologies.He noted that Qatar aims to capture 5mn tonnes of carbon emissions annually by 2030, as these initiatives are part of Qatar's commitment to fulfilling its international obligations under the Paris Agreement.In another session that discussed the topic of addressing climate vulnerability, and promoting an inclusive and equitable approach to climate action, HE al-Humaidi affirmed the importance of pursuing an overall approach that ensures the engagement of all nations, especially those which are more vulnerable to climate change effects, such as small island states, mountainous countries, and landlocked nations.He stressed that climate challenges require a comprehensive international response that considers the needs of these countries, citing the Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy 2021-2030, which aims to enhance energy efficiency and increase reliance on renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy.He noted Al Daayen solar power plant project, which intends to produce 500 megawatts by 2025, contributing to reducing dependence on traditional energy sources, emphasising Qatar's role in supporting developed countries.He noted Qatar's active engagement in supporting the Green Climate Fund and renewable energy projects in Africa, as these projects helped improve the living conditions in remote communities suffering from resource scarcity.The conference addressed an array of key topics, including bolstering parliamentary action in drafting climate-related legislation, supporting innovation in clean technology, and providing the necessary funding to help developing countries mitigate the impacts of climate change.The participants discussed the significance of promoting climate justice by providing support to the most affected countries and communities, and ensuring the implementation of overarching and enduring solutions.

The National Paints Factories Company held its Qatar dealer meet recently. General manager Saleh bin Ahmed al-Khulaifi, department managers and owners and managers of the shops selling, marketing and supporting the company's products Oryx and Robson paints were present.The meeting featured a presentation about the products that obtained the Qatari Quality Mark. National Paints Factories Company is the first paint company to obtain this mark.The company already has three ISO certificates: 9001-2015 for Management systems, 14001-2015 environmental management system, and 45001-2018 Occupational and Health safety management systems. National Paints is currently in the process of obtaining ISO 17025 certificate for ISO accredited laboratories.

talabat, the Mena region’s leading on-demand food, grocery and retail platform for everyday deliveries, hosted the annual talabat Choice Awards at Hospitality Qatar for the fourth consecutive year.The event on November 14 was held in the presence of key industry stakeholders and partners.The talabat Annual Choice Awards celebrates excellence across multiple categories, highlighting outstanding restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, and dedicated logistics partners who are propelling the industry forward in Qatar.This year's award ceremony consisted of 28 categories, including Fastest Delivery, Best Quality, Best Service and Most Loved Brands of 2024, among many others.Francisco Miguel De Sousa, managing director of talabat Qatar, stated: “We are proud to host the Annual Choice Awards at Hospitality Qatar 2024. This event provided an opportunity to celebrate excellence within the food and hospitality sectors in Qatar and recognise the outstanding contributions of restaurants and valued partners across the country. Our goal is to continue to uplift the local culinary sector and support in creating opportunities for community engagement and industry growth.”International Fairs and Promotions Qatar general manager, Haidar Mshaimesh, said: “This event highlighted the dedication, creativity, and hard work of industry leaders, showcasing the immense potential within our community."Consumers can download talabat on the iOS App Store, Google Play Store or Huawei App Gallery.

King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein of the sisterly Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan welcomed Sunday in Amman HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani.At the beginning of the meeting, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs conveyed His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani's greetings and wishes of good health and happiness to King Abdullah II and continued progress and prosperity to brotherly Jordanian people.For his part, King Abdullah II entrusted HE Sheikh Mohammed to convey his greetings and wishes of good health and happiness to His Highness the Amir and further progress and prosperity to the Qatari people.During the meeting, they discussed bilateral co-operation relations and ways to boost them along with the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, especially the facilitation of an obstacle-free humanitarian and relief aid access to all areas of the Strip.They also took stock of several topics of common interest.

QNB Group provided ‘Strategic Sponsorship’ for the 2024 World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), a global initiative of the Qatar Foundation, held recently under the theme of 'Humanising Health: Conflict, Equity and Resilience.'The sponsorship stresses QNB’s commitment to supporting initiatives that foster innovation and contribute in building better and healthier communities, for an impactful and sustainable change, a statement said. It also emphasises its efforts in developing technologies that address health challenges on both national and global levels.Over the course of two days, more than 2,000 health policymakers, innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and practitioners came together for WISH 2024 to explore innovative solutions to some of the world’s biggest health challenges.Commenting on this sponsorship, QNB Group CEO Abdulla Mubarak al-Khalifa, said: “We are proud of sponsoring the seventh edition of WISH with which we share values like creativity, driving innovation, and excellence."Sponsoring this unique global platform for healthcare innovation, affirms our commitment to promoting health and wellness of all Qatari citizens in line with QNV 2030, while enabling us to support sustainable causes and benefit local communities in countries where QNB operates.”ends

Work is currently underway to build three new schools in the Al-Thumama area (Zone 50), said Hassan Ali al-Ishaq, a member of the Central Municipal Council representing the 9th Constituency Speaking to local Arabic daily Arrayah, he noted that these include two primary schools for boys and girls and a secondary school for girls, with around 40% of the construction works completed so far. He expressed his appreciation for the Ministry of Education and Higher Education for addressing the area's growing demand for schools, highlighting the need for a secondary school for boys in the area. He said that the first school is a primary school in Al-Thumama West (Zone 50), near the American Academy. This school is part of a public-private partnership programme overseen by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and executed by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). He added that there is a 20,000-sqm plot of land between the school under construction and the American Academy, designated for parking lots to be used by parents and staff. He expressed hope that the parking area would be prepared before the school’s completion to maximisze its utility. The other two schools are in Al-Thumama East (Zone 50) and are also part of a public-private partnership under the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s supervision and executed by Ashghal. One of these schools is a primary school for girls, and the other is a secondary school for girls. In the meantime Al-Ishaq pointed out the completion of the construction of a new mosque in Al-Thumama West (Zone 50), located behind Al-Thumama Mall. The mosque, which accommodates over 700 worshippers and includes a prayer area for women, is nearing completion. Besides this, a new family park has been established in Al-Thumama West (Zone 50). The park is nearly ready, with only fencing and minor technical works remaining. The park covers an area of around 3,000 sqm, but he stressed the need for a larger park of at least 8,000 sqm to provide sufficient space for recreational activities and events.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani will take part in the Group of 20 (G20) Summit Monday, at the invitation of President of the Federative Republic of Brazil Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, whose country holds the current G20 presidency.The 2024 G20 Summit will be held in Rio de Janeiro in the presence of Their Highnesses and Excellencies heads of state and government, and delegations.After the summit, His Highness the Amir will pay official visits to the Republic of Costa Rica and the Republic of Colombia, where His Highness will meet leaders of the two countries and senior officials to discuss means of bolstering co-operation in various areas, as well as regional and international issues of joint interest.His Highness the Amir will attend the 8th edition of the Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award which is held this year in San Jose, Costa Rica.His Highness the Amir will be accompanied by an official delegation.Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award is a global event celebrating the remarkable work of Anti-Corruption fighters around the world. Since 2016 the award has been held around the world in support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The Rule Of Law and Anti-Corruption Center is proud to serve as the secretariat of this prestigious award.The Award crowns the efforts of Qatar locally, internationally, and regionally in promoting the principles of transparency and integrity. The Award is considered a global initiative with objectives and dimensions that reinforce good governance and transparency. It unleashes the hand of justice to uproot the scourge of corruption, which poses a serious threat to the future, progress, and well-being of nations, especially since corruption jeopardizes the stability of societies, hinders the path of development and progress, and deepens division within a single society.The first round of political consultations between the ministries of foreign affairs of Qatar and the Republic of Colombia was held in the Colombian capital of Bogota on October 20.The Qatari side was led by HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan al-Hammadi, while the Colombian side was headed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Francisco J. Coy G.Bilateral cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them were reviewed during the round of consultations.The second round of political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Qatar and the Republic of Costa Rica was held in San Jose in September this year.The Qatari side was headed by HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi, while the Costa Rican side was headed by HE Vice Minister of Bilateral Affairs and International Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lydia Mara Peralta Cordero.The political consultations, dealt with bilateral cooperation relations, in addition to a host of topics of common interest.Reuters adds from Rio De Janeiro: Diplomatic tensions over global warming will take center stage at the G20 summit in Brazil this week, as negotiators at UN talks in Azerbaijan hit an impasse on climate finance that they hope leaders of the world's 20 major economies can break.Heads of state arriving in Rio de Janeiro for the G20 summit will spend Monday and Tuesday addressing issues from poverty and hunger to the reform of global institutions. Still, the ongoing UN climate talks have thrown a spotlight on their efforts to tackle global warming.While the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, is tasked with agreeing a goal to mobilize hundreds billions of dollars for the climate, leaders of the Group of 20 major economies half a world away in Rio are holding the purse strings.G20 countries account for 85% of the world's economy and are the largest contributors to multilateral development banks helping to steer climate finance. They are also responsible for more than three-quarters of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide."All countries must do their part. But the G20 must lead," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told COP29 last week.

The National Traffic Safety Committee, in cooperation with the General Directorate of Traffic, organised an event on Sunday to mark the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims under the theme "Remember -Support - Act," in the presence of a number of officers, representatives of the concerned authorities, and a number of students from military colleges and schools in the State of Qatar.On this occasion, Director General of Traffic Major General Abdul Aziz bin Jassim Al-Thani said that the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, which was designated by the United Nations on the third Sunday of November of each year, comes this year under the slogan (Remember - Support - Act). He noted that the goal of holding this day is related to remembering the victims who lost their lives, as well as supporting people who sustained serious injuries as a result of road accidents, and working to provide support to them and their families.He added that the General Directorate of Traffic aims, through marking this anniversary, to highlight the importance of traffic safety and raise awareness among community members of the dangers of traffic accidents, which are today considered one of the key causes of death and disability worldwide. It is also an occasion to appreciate the efforts made by police officers and rescue and emergency teams.He noted that the General Directorate of Traffic, along with the concerned traffic authorities in the country, has taken several measures to reduce traffic accidents, based on the fourth strategic objective of the Ministry of Interior, which aims to (raise the level of traffic safety on the roads).The Director General of Traffic said that traffic data and indicators in the country during the past years showed a significant decrease in deaths and serious injuries resulting from traffic accidents, as the traffic accident death rate per 100,000 people reached (5.3) deaths during 2023, which is less than the global rate of (15) deaths per 100,000 people.For his part, Member and Secretary of the National Traffic Safety Committee Brigadier Dr. Mohammed Radi Al Hajri said that the State of Qatar has paid great attention to the issue of traffic safety, sensing its importance in preserving the country's human and economic resources.Al Hajri indicated that the country, based on its legal and humanitarian responsibility, has established a National Traffic Safety Committee headed by HE the Minister of Interior and with the membership of all parties concerned with traffic safety as a leading national institution that is responsible for drawing up the country's traffic policy in all its legislative, educational, cultural, health, technical, and engineering fields to achieve the highest standards of traffic safety in a way that preserves the country's human and economic resources.He added that thanks to the sound traffic policies adopted by the committee and as a result of the great interest given by HE Minister of Interior and Chairman of the National Traffic Safety Committee Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani to the issue of traffic safety, in addition to the cooperation of all parties and their commitment to implementing the policies drawn up by the committee in this field, the State of Qatar has been able to achieve significant progress in reducing the rate of deaths and injuries resulting from road accidents.He explained that despite the advanced results achieved by the State of Qatar in reducing the rate of deaths and injuries resulting from road accidents, the ambition is still great in achieving further progress in the field of traffic safety.In turn, Director of the Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Programs Department at the Ministry of Public Health Dr. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Thani stressed that traffic accidents remain a major challenge in the fields of public health and development around the world, as approximately 1.3 million people die and up to 50 million people are injured each year due to these accidents, which may be serious and lead to long-term physical and psychological disabilities, which greatly affects families and communities.He pointed out that the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims is an appropriate opportunity to highlight the need to raise awareness among drivers and all road users about traffic safety and to call for strengthening measures that would prevent and reduce injuries resulting from traffic accidents, provide safe roads and vehicles, and encourage safe driving.He also addressed the achievements made by the State of Qatar in improving traffic safety, including the remarkable improvement witnessed in the country's infrastructure, which is in line with international road safety standards, and the implementation of several traffic laws that cover various aspects of traffic safety, including speed limits, the use of seat belts and helmets, child restraints, and not using mobile phones while driving, praising the rapid response of emergency services and the health sector in transporting the injured and providing swift and necessary medical care.For his part, Head of Vascular and Trauma Surgery at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Sheikh Dr. Hassan bin Ali AI-Thani discussed the risks of road accidents and their negative effects on individuals and societies, revealing a set of global figures and statistics that indicate the seriousness of road accidents and the resulting deaths and injuries that leave serious health and economic impacts.He pointed out the efforts of the health sector in the State of Qatar in confronting road accidents, the attempts to reduce injuries, and the efforts of medical teams in dealing with cases. He stressed the importance of the joint responsibility of all concerned parties and families to confront road accidents, and the role of awareness efforts among all segments of society, while adhering to traffic laws and road safety, as studies have proven that adherence to implementing these laws and following safety guidelines plays an important role in reducing injuries.In special remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Assistant Director of the Media and Traffic Awareness Department at the General Directorate of Traffic Lieutenant Colonel Jaber Mohamed Odaiba said that the General Directorate of Traffic works according to a strategy that covers all aspects of accidents and their causes through traffic awareness, reviewing road safety and targeting drivers to raise their level of awareness, as part of a plan implemented throughout the year.The Assistant Director of the Media and Traffic Awareness Department said that this topic comes in partnership with all parties represented by the Public Works Authority, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Public Health, and representatives of media institutions, with the aim of addressing all causes to reduce traffic accident rates.In a similar statement to QNA, pediatric emergency medicine consultant at Sidra Medicine Dr. Khalid Al Yafei said that some children are exposed to road accidents while inside the vehicle, and a percentage of them are exposed to accidents while they are on the roads using scooters or bicycles.He added that most of the ages received due to traffic accidents range from one week to 14 years, indicating that all cases of children received in this regard are fully examined to determine the severity of the injury to provide appropriate treatment swiftly without any delay to avoid any complications, according to the followed protocol.During a presentation at the event, Al Yafei spoke about road accidents among children, stressing that it is a serious global problem and is considered the main cause of death among children and youth, as approximately 220,000 children and youth die annually as a result of road accidents, while more than 600 deaths per day can be avoided.He reviewed a number of statistics related to traffic accidents, the number of deaths, and the severity of injuries, stressing the importance of working to increase awareness in society and focusing on the use of traffic safety and security measures, such as adherence to seat belts, helmets, and other means of protection in accordance with the law.For his part, Director of Land Transport Planning Department at the Ministry of Transport Saleh Saeed Al Marri indicated that the ministry is keen on joint work and coordination with all relevant authorities in the country to improve road safety and reduce traffic accidents. It also works on developing effective plans, programs, and strategies to enhance the quality and management of demand for transportation and strive to achieve balance and integration between private and public transportation services.He pointed out that the ministry has prepared a number of major projects to improve the transportation system and raise the levels of road safety in the country, reviewing the future plans that the Ministry of Transport is working on, including auditing road safety on the existing road network, updating the comprehensive plan for bicycles, in addition to studying and preparing smart mobility strategies within cities.On the sidelines of the event, an accompanying exhibition was inaugurated, showcasing various entities' contributions to promoting safety standards and raising traffic awareness.The program featured a documentary on enhancing traffic safety in the State of Qatar, highlighting the efforts made and measures taken that led to a decrease in the rate of traffic accident deaths and enhancing constructive cooperation between the National Traffic Safety Committee and other entities in the country to achieve the desired goals.

Doha Festival City, Qatar’s premier destination for style expression and coveted trends, will host Front Row Live, an immersive three-day celebration of fashion and beauty curated by Harper’s Bazaar Qatar. From November 21-23, visitors can engage with exclusive masterclasses, runway shows, and insightful discussions held at the mall’s Centre Court, featuring a blend of local, regional, and international brands. The occasion underscores Doha Festival City’s dedication to providing a curated selection of top brands and experiences for Qatar’s vibrant fashion-conscious community.“Front Row Live is a celebration of style, creativity, and community at Doha Festival City, placing us at the forefront of trends and cultural engagement,” said Noreen Nasralla, Executive Director, Marketing, Al-Futtaim Real Estate. “Once again, we are delighted to celebrate our new and refreshed outlook with a long line-up of continuing initiatives, that not only highlight the latest in fashion and beauty, but also champion sustainability and supports local talent. Our goal is to create memorable experiences that resonate with Qatar’s vibrant community and reinforce Doha Festival City’s role as the destination for style expression.”"We are absolutely thrilled to be launching Front Row Live with Doha Festival City,” adds Harper’s Bazaar Qatar Director Bianca Brigitte Bonomi. “At its heart, this inventive and engaging collaboration is a celebration of fashion, creativity, and the individuals, institutions, and brands that enrich our lives. We are excited to see this come to life in our beautiful bespoke pop-up in Centre Court and to shine a spotlight on those that are making waves in the industry.”The first day kicks off with Fashioning the Future, led by Maha Al Sulaiti, Director of M7, exploring Qatar’s burgeoning creative industries. Following this, guests will experience a runway show of eveningwear by Ava, Hera, List Roma, Aura, Alma Nova, and Luisa Spagnoli. In Creatives, United, Amira Al-Jaziri and Alanoud Jassim will discuss Qatar’s vibrant creative community.Opening night will also see the unveiling of a new sustainability exhibition and runway, curated by leading sustainability advocate and designer Gills Manjulakshmi. Forming part of the ongoing Emerging Voices programme, a new initiative spearheaded by Doha Festival City and Harper’s Bazaar, the exhibition will platform big ideas, new thinking, and leading collections from Qatar based creatives including VCUarts Qatar, Scale7, and M7 alumni.Elsewhere, jewellery and fashion displays will include Mikimoto, &Other Stories, Maje, Sandro, Furla, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger.Friday’s schedule begins with a live chat titled Sustainable Fashion: In Conversation, featuring Gills Manjulakshmi,Sonali Ramen, and Mashael Alnaimi. Fragrance lovers can join a masterclass by Creed with Abdelaziz AlSafadi, followed by a styling session on new-season trends by Nour Bou Ezz. The evening will welcome MAC’s Global Senior Artist Mariam Khairallah, flying to Qatar to lead her first ever masterclass in Doha. The evening will feature a runway show with Maje and Sandro.On the final day, leading wellness practitioner and former Bazaar cover star Jawaher Al Fardan will join Bazaar and Alo Yoga for a special Rise and Shine morning session, followed by a Charlotte Tilbury masterclass with former Bazaar cover star and leading beauty guru Haneen Al Saify. In another programme highlight, Amouage’s Creative Director Renaud Salmon will discuss the brand's latest creations followed by a beautifully curated Harvey Nichols Doha catwalk show. To conclude the programme, Front Row Live will welcome two industry heavyweights – highly influential beauty entrepreneur and founder of Kayali Mona Kattan, and global fashion icon Leonie Hanne, joining Bazaar for her first ever in-conversation in Qatar.Front Row Live will showcase a carefully selected blend of luxury and trend-forward brands including Mikimoto, Noudar, Sartoro, Chopard, Marli, Montblanc, Calvin Klein, Polo Ralph Lauren, Forever New, Guess, Scotch & Soda, and Adolfo Dominguez. This collection showcases Qatar’s evolving style landscape, uniting international names with emerging local talent and sustainable practices.With interactive activations, strategic partnerships, and a focus on local culture, Front Row Live offers an unparalleled experience that cements Doha Festival City as Qatar’s destination for style, culture, and community.For more information, visit our website.

Doha Port welcomed today the maiden voyage of the cruise ship “MSC Euribia” with 4,576 passengers and 1,665 crew members on board.Measuring over 331 meters in length and 43 meters in width, the Maltese-flagged “MSC Euribia” is the largest ship to visit the terminal this season, which will continue until April 2025 with 20 scheduled visits.As the 22nd ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, the “MSC Euribia” can accommodate up to 6,327 passengers. It features state-of-the-art marine technology and is the second ship in MSC Cruises' fleet powered by liquefied natural gas or LNG.

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani sent a written message to Minister of Foreign Affairs of the sisterly State of Kuwait Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, pertaining to the close fraternal relations between the two countries and ways to further bolster them.HE Qatar's Ambassador to Kuwait Ali bin Abdullah Al Mahmoud delivered the message during a meeting with HE the Kuwaiti Foreign Minister today.

University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) announced that its Chemical Engineering Department has been granted official Student Chapter status by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE).This prestigious recognition connects UDSTs students with chemical engineering professionals, offering valuable opportunities for professional and academic development.UDSTs Chemical Engineering students will benefit from direct access to AIChEs extensive network, allowing them to engage with industry leaders and potential employers. The chapter will also provide students with valuable career resources, such as mentorship programs, and career fairs, which will help guide them towards successful careers in the field of chemical engineering.President of University of Doha for Science and Technology Dr. Salem bin Nasser Al Naemi said: "We are proud to announce the establishment of a student chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) on our campus. This significant achievement for the Chemical Engineering Department reflects our commitment to providing world-class engineering education."The chapter will offer a variety of learning opportunities, including participation in AIChE conferences, workshops, and webinars, where students can enhance their academic knowledge and professional skills. Additionally, the chapter will empower students to take on leadership roles, organizing events and gaining essential project management experience.

The Ministry of Labour, in collaboration with Qatar Foundation and the Workers' Support and Insurance Fund, hosted a special event at the Education City Theatre to mark International Day for Tolerance, observed annually on 16 November. The event aimed to promote dialogue among the diverse communities in Qatar, foster social integration, and highlight the role of tolerance in achieving peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.This initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Labour, the Workers' Support and Insurance Fund, and Qatar Foundation to champion values of tolerance and cultural diversity, contributing to the development of a cohesive, strong, and inclusive society. It also underscores Qatar's commitment to being a beacon of compassion, fostering national unity through empathy, and embedding these principles within its institutional framework.The celebration was attended by Mrs. Kholoud Saif Al-Kubaisi, Executive Director of the Workers' Support and Insurance Fund, and featured a series of cultural and artistic performances by various communities, highlighting the importance of tolerance and cultural diversity.Additionally, the "Akhlaquna" initiative was launched, alongside an awareness campaign under the slogan "In Our Compassion Lies Our Strength" and the release of a guide outlining the campaign's objectives and target audience. The campaign aims to promote compassion through core values such as cooperation, empathy, and mutual respect, and to translate these into actionable behaviours.As outlined in the guide, the campaign calls for collaboration across all sectors—both public and private—and the involvement of key influences to spread the message of compassion throughout institutions and society, transforming it from an abstract ideal into a concrete way of life.

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani sent on Sunday a cable of congratulations to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of the sisterly Sultanate of Oman on the anniversary of his country's National Day.

His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Thani sent on Sunday a cable of congratulations to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of the sisterly Sultanate of Oman on the anniversary of his country's National Day.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani sent on Sunday a cable of congratulations to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of the sisterly Sultanate of Oman on the anniversary of his country's National Day.