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HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani sent a cable of congratulations to Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Mostafa Kamal Madbouly, on the occasion of his country's National Day.

HH the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Thani sent a cable of congratulations to HE President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El Sisi, on the occasion of his country's National Day.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani sent a cable of congratulations to HE President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El Sisi, on the occasion of his country's National Day.

HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi has underlined that the Somali Diaspora Conference, currently in session in Doha, constitutes an important opportunity to discuss how to employ the expertise and capabilities of Somali communities abroad in building and developing Somalia and strengthening the economy through investors and entrepreneurs and capacity building through training and development programmes.In addition it will help review potential challenges and opportunities for Somali expatriates to participate in the development of their country, and highlighting their success stories in this context.In his speech during the opening of the three-day conference, HE al-Muraikhi said that the conference, which is being held for the first time in an Arab country, is a forum that includes members of Somali communities abroad, who have faced many challenges in the diaspora countries, such as the difficulty of integrating into new societies, adapting to the different cultures of diaspora countries, the difficulty of maintaining cultural identity, unemployment and difficult economic conditions.He added that despite these challenges, the members of the Somali community in the diaspora have been able to overcome these obstacles, which reflects the great ability of the Somali community to adapt and integrate with local communities, while preserving its cultural identity, in addition to overcoming difficult economic circumstances.He stressed the importance of concerted international efforts and the contribution of Somali expatriates in building their country, noting that Qatar will remain supportive of Somalia. HE al-Muraikhi pointed to the important role played by Qatar in implementing many vital development, reconstruction, and rehabilitation projects in Somalia, including; building roads such as the Mogadishu-Afgooye Road Project, and the Mogadishu-Johar Project, in addition to Qatar’s contribution to the rehabilitation and construction of the headquarters of the Ministry of Planning and Investment, and the construction and rehabilitation of the Mogadishu Municipality Building, besides its support for security capabilities, economic empowerment programmes, and creating jobs for youth in Somalia.He added that Qatar is also implementing many development and sustainable projects in Somalia to enhance stability, security and peace, emphasising that Qatar will spare no effort in supporting Somalia to achieve prosperity and stability.For his part, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre expressed his deep thanks and appreciation to Qatar for hosting this important conference, noting that this hosting reflects the strong fraternal relations between the two countries.In his speech during the opening of the conference, the Somali prime minister appreciated Qatar’s continuous and generous support for the Somali people in various fields, praising its giving during the ordeal of the conflict in Somalia, and its great efforts through which it sought to bridge the rift and bring the views of the Somali parties closer together.He said that this conference reflects the aspirations and goals of the Somali people to achieve development and prosperity, through discussing ways of fruitful co-operation between Somalis abroad and their country of origin, in a way that contributes to achieving the comprehensive renaissance of their country.He pointed to the prominent role played by the Somali community in the diaspora in various fields.The Somali prime minister said that economic partnerships are one of the most important means of achieving sustainable growth, calling in this regard for the establishment of strategic partnerships that contribute to the development of various aspects of life, especially in the fields of education, health, insurance, and finance.He said that enhancing production capabilities and opening new markets for national products are considered vital steps towards achieving economic stability, noting his country’s endeavour to enhance trade exchange with various countries of the world to improve the national economy.He said that utilising Somali natural resources sustainably is essential for achieving sustainable development, expressing his hope that Somali expatriates would contribute to establishing companies in the field of renewable energy.He also highlighted the need for their role in managing national resources, including fisheries, livestock, and agriculture, and in implementing best practices in these areas.He highlighted the most prominent challenges facing his country, such as; environmental challenges, poverty, and building productive societies, noting the Somali government’s efforts to improve security and stability in the country, as enhancing security is a basis for creating an attractive environment for investments, which contributes to achieving sustainable economic development. (QNA)

Qatar’s culinary landscape is poised for a major transformation as the Michelin Guide arrives in Doha for its 2025 selection, promising to elevate the country’s dining scene and hospitality industry to unprecedented heights, a Qatar Tourism (QT) official said.“This recognition acts as a powerful catalyst for tourism, attracting discerning travellers who rely on the Guide to discover exceptional dining experiences. Many travellers plan their visits around Michelin-starred establishments, underscoring Doha’s appeal as a destination committed to culinary quality and innovation,” Omar al-Jaber, Acting Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at QT, told Gulf Times.He noted that the Michelin Guide unveils Doha’s diverse culinary landscape, inviting travellers to embark on a gastronomic journey. From authentic Arabic and Middle Eastern flavours to a world of international cuisines, it promises enriching experiences that will leave a lasting impression on every visitor.QT recently announced the Guide’s expansion to Doha, marking the Guide’s commitment to highlighting global culinary scenes and promoting travel culture, a mission it has maintained since its founding in 1900.Al-Jaber said the Guide’s arrival will stimulate healthy competition within Qatar’s culinary landscape. This, he added, will encourage restaurants to constantly innovate and enhance their offerings, leading to a more diverse and sophisticated dining scene for both residents and visitors.He added that service excellence across the sector will further complement the Guide’s influence, ensuring that every aspect of a visitor’s dining and hospitality experience in Doha meets the highest standards.“We are particularly proud of this partnership as it signifies Qatar’s commitment to nurturing culinary talent and promoting luxury and quality. Doha has become a magnet for skilled chefs and professionals who see our city as a hub of opportunity for their creative expression and career advancement,” he pointed out.The QT official expressed confidence that this international acclaim will undoubtedly draw more tourists seeking memorable dining experiences, thereby boosting the local economy and hospitality sector.“This growth not only supports local employment but also encourages skill development and career advancement for individuals passionate about culinary arts and hospitality,” al-Jaber added. To Page 12He said Doha’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide’s global restaurant selections is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the region, promoting travel culture and culinary experiences in Qatar and the wider Middle East.Sharing a glimpse into the Michelin inspectors’ journey during their review process, al-Jaber said that they have likely encountered a variety of unique culinary trends and an eclectic mix of dining experiences that showcase the city’s diversity and innovation in gastronomy.He said the inspectors have been immersing themselves in both high-end restaurants and hidden gems across different neighbourhoods, ensuring a thorough and independent evaluation.By adhering to Michelin’s rigorous evaluation criteria, al-Jaber said such collaboration ensures that Doha remains at the forefront of culinary excellence, offering fresh and enticing experiences to visitors.According to al-Jaber, the decision to expand the Michelin Guide to Doha was driven by a number of compelling factors, demonstrating Qatar’s commitment to culinary excellence.“Qatar is rapidly emerging as a prominent global travel destination, blending rich Arabian traditions with a welcoming atmosphere that has captivated visitors worldwide for decades,” he said. “This unique cultural tapestry provides an ideal backdrop for showcasing diverse culinary experiences, making Doha a natural choice for the Michelin Guide’s expansion”.Highlighting QT’s key role in supporting the arrival of the Michelin Guide through several strategic initiatives, al-Jaber said: “This partnership ensures that our finest dining establishments are prominently recognised for their exceptional quality and service.“By showcasing these venues, we aim to elevate their profiles on a global stage, attracting discerning travellers who seek unparalleled culinary experiences.”

Israel sent tanks back into the greater Khan Younis area after ordering evacuations of some districts and at least 70 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire, Gaza medics said yesterday.The Palestinians were killed by tank salvoes in the town of Bani Suhaila and other towns fringing the eastern side of Khan Younis, with the area also bombarded from the air, they said.Residents of the densely built-up area of southern Gaza said the tanks advanced for more than two kilometres into Bani Suhaila, forcing residents to flee under fire.The Gaza health ministry said the dead included several women and children and that at least 200 other people had been wounded.The Israeli offensive since October 7 has killed at least 39,006 Palestinians as of yesterday, Gaza health authorities said.Around 400,000 people were living in the targeted areas and dozens of families had begun to leave their houses, Palestinian officials said, adding they were not given time to get out of harm’s way before the Israeli strikes began.Some families fled on donkey carts, others on foot, carrying mattresses and other belongings.Talks in Doha on ThursdayAFP adds from Doha: An Israeli delegation will travel to Doha on Thursday to discuss new demands for a Gaza truce and hostage-prisoner exchange, a source with knowledge of the talks said. The delegation would meet with mediator Qatar’s Prime Minister HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani. Qatar, along with Egypt and the United States, has been engaged in months of behind-the-scenes efforts to broker a Gaza truce and a hostage-prisoner swap.

Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has announced the launch of the “Request to Pay” feature on its Fawran instant payment service, available through the QIB mobile app.The Fawran “Request to Pay” service enables customers to request a payment from a registered Fawran user instantly through the QIB mobile app.By entering the payer’s alias and the amount needed, the request is sent via Fawran to the payer in any bank in Qatar. Once the payer approves, the transfer is executed instantly.As part of the QIB’s efforts to align with Qatar’s Third Financial Sector Strategy, the “Request to Pay” feature enhances the payment and transfer processes by integrating advanced security protocols and improving accessibility.Fawran, which means “instantly” in Arabic, streamlines the payment and transfer process for new and existing customers.It uses alternative identifiers for account details, empowering customers to instantly send and receive funds without the need for inputting traditional beneficiary details making the process fast and easy.By facilitating instant transfers, Fawran offers a rapid and secure electronic payment solution, accessible 24/7.The service allows customers to transfer up to QR50,000 per transaction.Fawran also offers customers the options to manage the linkage of alias names to their desired accounts and track their transactions through its payment history.“We are pleased to launch the ‘Request to Pay’ feature, yet another useful feature in our continuous quest to enhance customer convenience,” said QIB general manager (Personal Banking Group) D Anand. “This new addition empowers our customers, affirming our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that meet their evolving financial needs and offer them speed, convenience and more control and flexibility.”Available on App Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery, customers can download the QIB mobile app and easily self-register using their active ATM/debit card number and PIN.For more information, visit www.qib.com.qa/en-Fawran

Democrats rapidly coalesced around Vice-President Kamala Harris yesterday as she raced to secure the party’s nomination to take on Donald Trump in November, in the wake of President Joe Biden’s sensational exit from the race.Armed with Biden’s endorsement, the 59-year-old won the backing of a flood of Democratic leaders on her first full day of campaigning.Harris won the crucial backing of Democratic heavyweight Nancy Pelosi, the former US House speaker and a prime mover in moves to oust the 81-year-old Biden.“With immense pride and limitless optimism for our country’s future, I endorse Vice-President Kamala Harris for President of the United States,” Pelosi, 84, said in a message on X.“I have full confidence that she will lead us to victory in November.”Earlier, a slew of heavyweight governors, including leaders once seen as potential hopefuls for the party’s presidential nomination, added their backing.“Let’s win this,” posted Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, announcing her support in tandem with the governors of Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin.The governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, also declared his support, making him one of the favourites to be picked as Harris’s vice presidential running mate.Harris also secured the backing of California Governor Gavin Newsom and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, both touted as top presidential contenders.But she still needs to persuade key hold-outs and convince some donors who are urging for an open contest to select the Democratic candidate that will take on Republican challenger Donald Trump.Among major names to back Harris were LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, who wrote on social media: “I wholeheartedly support Kamala Harris and her candidacy for President of the United States in our fight for democracy in November.”Harris must still win over some key hold-outs if she is to wrap up the nomination, which could happen as early as August 1. Page 8

In the presence of HE the Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, who is also Commander of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) and Chairman of the Supreme Council of the Police Academy, the Police Academy celebrated multiple significant milestones yesterday.The ceremony marked the graduation of the ninth mandatory qualifying course for male graduates of civil universities, the second mandatory qualifying course for female graduates of civil universities, and the fourth group of graduates from the fifth edition of the “Police of Tomorrow” programme.The ceremony featured a film detailing the journey of the graduates from recruitment through to the completion of their training.This integrated programme included both theoretical and practical aspects of police work.Graduates took an oath, committing themselves to the responsibility of defending and serving the nation.The minister presented certificates to 96 male and female officer candidates from the Ministry of Interior and Lekhwiya Force.Course commander Major Eid Bulayhin Hazam al-Qahtani highlighted the comprehensive nature of the training, which covered theoretical, scientific, legal, and practical police training.He emphasised the programme’s aim to equip officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the challenges of modern policing.In a speech on behalf of the graduates, Officer Candidate Abdullah Abdulaziz al-Ansari commended the training programme and acknowledged the efforts made to prepare the students for their professional roles in the police force, aligning with international training standards.HE Sheikh Khalifa also attended the graduation ceremony of the fourth group of the fifth edition of the “Police of Tomorrow” programme (Summer 2024), which included around 400 students.The event showcased films on the “Police of Tomorrow” programme, the importance of cybersecurity and the fight against cybercrimes, and the efforts of security personnel in combating drug trafficking.The ceremony featured live demonstrations of self-defence and shooting skills, reflecting the advanced training received by the “Police of Tomorrow” participants.The programme comprises military and sports exercises such as infantry, shooting, swimming, and self-defence, along with educational lectures and field visits.The programme aims to instil a deep sense of national identity and authentic Arab and Islamic values, enhance the spirit of loyalty and belonging among the youth, and develop self-confidence through an integrated training and educational programme.This event underscores the commitment of the Police Academy to producing well-rounded, highly skilled officers capable of meeting the evolving demands of modern policing.

Under the auspices of Qatar’s Permanent Mission to the UN Office in Geneva, the International Sustainability Conference 2024, organised by the World Association for Sustainable Development (WASD), began yesterday at the UN headquarters in Geneva.The conference runs from July 22-25 and focuses on accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and its 17 goals, highlighting the crucial role of educational institutions.In her opening speech, Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva, HE Dr Hind bint Abdulrahman al-Muftah, detailed Qatar’s efforts to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs), highlighting the involvement of Qatar’s academic institutions in supporting national development strategies through innovation, scientific research, implementation, monitoring, and follow-up.She said that education is a top priority for Qatar and a key tool in its pursuit of the SDGs, pointing out that investment in quality education remains a cornerstone for economic development, societal advancement, and achieving growth and prosperity.HE Dr al-Muftah also noted that Qatar leverages research, development, and innovation to implement the 2030 SDGs and boost productivity, guided by Qatar National Vision 2030.Additionally, Qatar has heavily invested in information and communication technology to enhance sustainability and expedite SDGs implementation.She affirmed that universities play a vital role in achieving the SDGs by disseminating knowledge, generating ideas, assisting governments and policymakers, and equipping them with the tools needed to devise strategies and address various crises and challenges.

The Heart Hospital at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has felicitated the General Administration of Endowments at the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs for their continuing support to the hospital.According to an official statement from Awqaf, the honouring ceremony comes in gratitude for Awqaf’s Nabd initiative supporting heart patients.Sheikh Dr Khaled bin Mohamed al-Thani, the director of the General Administration of Endowments, received the memento from Heart Hospital chief executive and medical director Dr Nidal Asaad in the presence of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department head Dr Abdul Wahed al-Mulla and officials from the two sides at a function held at the headquarters of the Heart Hospital.“This support benefits many patients,” Dr al-Mulla said, noting that there has been a steady increase in the number of beneficiaries year after year.He praised the Nabd initiative.Sheikh Dr Khaled hailed the efforts exerted by the Heart Hospital to utilise the endowment.He said that more than 114 heart patients benefited from the Nabd initiative last year.The General Administration of Endowments director also announced the continuation of the existing partnership with the Heart Hospital to support and assist critical cases of heart patients in need under the Endowment Bank for Health Care.The Endowment Bank for Health Care is one of the six endowment banks and was established to reinforce the historical role of health endowments in Islamic history.The bank is one of the forms of community participation and support for this important sector, assisting low-income patients in need of treatment and providing appropriate health services to them, co-operating with the competent authorities to create joint health programmes, holding educational training courses in the healthcare sector, and making use of the media to spread health awareness.

Qatar is participating in the 2024 model Arab Youth Parliament, held under the theme “Towards Sustainable Community Participation,” taking place in Cairo from July 21-27, with the participation of 100 young men and women from 15 Arab countries.Hosted by the General Secretariat of the League of Arab, the 2024 model Arab Youth Parliament meeting took place with the participation of the permanent mission of Qatar to the Arab League, represented by Saad al-Dosari and Nasser al-Hanzab, along with a delegation from the Ministry of Sports and Youth led by Rashid Mubarak al-Khayarin.The activities featured the honouring of Qatari inventor Abdulrahman Saleh Khamis, joint third place winner of the 2023 Arab Youth Excellence Award on Artificial Intelligence, for his invention ‘Sajdah’, which is a smart education prayer rug, to teach new Muslims and children to learn to pray correctly.The model focuses on three main pillars: political, economic, and social and aims to raise the awareness of Arab youth about the common challenges facing Arab states, ways to address them, enhance awareness mechanisms related to youth parliamentary diplomacy, and raise a future Arab youth leadership, capable of transferring the Arab League’s experience to Arab youth.Organised by the Arab League’s Secretariat General, the event is held in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Youth and Sports, under the patronage and attendance of Egyptian Minister of Youth and Sports Dr Ashraf Sobhy, who also serves as Chairman of the Executive Office of the Arab Ministers of Youth and Sports Council.