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The United States has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, on the grounds it would not have secured the release of hostages.Despite having secured 14 votes in favour, the draft resolution put forward by the 10 elected members of the Security Council (E10), failed to pass owing to the negative vote by a permanent member, the US.The text also reiterated the Council's demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages."We made clear throughout negotiations we could not support an unconditional ceasefire that failed to release the hostages. Because, as this council has previously called for, a durable end to the war must come with the release of the hostages," Deputy US Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood said following the veto Wednesday."These two urgent goals are inextricably linked. This resolution abandoned that necessity, and for that reason, the United States could not support it," Wood added.For his part, Algeria's permanent representative to the UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama said "It is a sad day for the Security Council, for the United Nations and the international community as a whole."It has been five months since the adoption of resolution 2735, he added."There were significant concessions during negotiations, yet one member chose to block any action any action from this council," he said."Today's message is clear to the Israeli occupying power -- you may continue your genocide ... with complete impunity. In this Chamber, you enjoy immunity," Bendjama said."To the Palestinian people, it is another clear message -- while the overwhelming majority of the world stands in solidarity with your plight, others remain indifferent to your suffering," he added.The Russian envoy Vassily Nebenzia said that the Council could have called today for an immediate, unconditional, and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. He added that it is absurd that the United States stands in the way of demanding such necessary actions to save lives in the worlds worst humanitarian crisis.Majed Bamya, deputy permanent observer of the State of Palestine, said that the Israeli comprehensive aggression on the Palestinian people is about everything except the hostages, as is clear to their families. Bamia added that a ceasefire will not solve everything, but it is the first step toward solving anything.Bamia further said that Israel's goals of destroying the Palestinian nation are not hidden, yet the tools designed to respond to these actions are not being used. He affirmed that the role of Security Council resolutions is to change the reality on the ground, not to record violations for historical purposes and then allow them to continue.

Under the patronage and attendance of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the groundbreaking ceremony for Land of Legends Qatar took place today, launching the development of a landmark destination set to transform tourism and entertainment in the region. This milestone project, born of a dynamic partnership between FTG Development and Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, establishing itself as a premier attraction in the heart of Simaisma.The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah, Minister of Municipality and Chairman of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company , Their Excellencies the Ministers, Eng. Ali Mohamed Al-Ali, CEO of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, Mr. Fettah Tamince, Founder of FTG Development and President of Land of Legends in Antalya, Turkey, Mr. Sebastien Bazil, CEO of Accor Group, in addition to a number of dignitaries, experts, and officials of the State of Qatar's real estate investment and tourism sectors.Land of Legends Qatar is a foreign investment project in the State of Qatar’s tourism sector, and a first major development within Simaisma Project, which spans over 8 million square meters and stretches along a stunning 7-kilometer beach. This expansive project emphasizes sustainability, integrates smart systems, and leverages advanced construction technologies to create an environmentally responsible development with world-class features. Alongside the theme park, Simaisma will feature an 18-hole golf course, a luxury yacht marina, high-end residential villas, and a variety of dining and retail options, establishing it as a premier leisure destination.Expected to attract 2 million visitors annually, Land of Legends Qatar will play a central role in advancing Qatar’s tourism landscape and supporting the nation’s goals for economic diversification. The project, which spans over 650,000 sqm, offers an unforgettable experience, taking visitors on an enchanting journey inspired by Ibn Battuta, across seven themed zones with multi unique themed attractions. Land of Legends Qatar unfolds as a modern "Rihlah", inviting guests to explore diverse landscapes, immersive experiences, and cultural marvels. This destination is packed with delights for all ages, including the family-friendly Kingdom Hotel with conference facilities and beachside activities, and Music Hotel, a multicultural destination which hosts a futuristic celebration of the world’s music and its forward evolution with a total of 1000 hotel rooms, from an impressive 80-meter-high mountain to boat parades along scenic canals and thrilling water adventures, every corner promises something extraordinary. A first Moving Theater of the region, equipped with state-of-the-art interactive technology, promises a fully immersive cinematic experience. Flying Theater, a soaring adventure ride flying over the Natural Marvels of the Arabic World Today, which transforms into the Fantastical myths and legends of the region. Visitors can also enjoy luxurious villas and a world-class dining selection, making each moment truly special.On the occasion of the groundbreaking for the first major entertainment destination within the Simaisma Project, His Excellency Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah, Minister of Municipality and Chairman of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, said:"This event marks an important step toward realizing an ambitious vision aimed at enhancing Qatar's position regionally and internationally, establishing it as a leading tourist destination. The 'Land of Legends' project is a key component of Qatar's strategy to diversify its national economy, offering an exceptional experience that will contribute to attracting investments and advancing the tourism sector."His Excellency emphasized that the Ministry of Municipality plays a pivotal role in supporting the project through strategies aimed at improving the quality of life, promoting sustainability, fostering innovation, and providing advanced infrastructure. He also pointed out the Ministry’s commitment to careful planning and ensuring the project’s integration with the master plan for the Simaisma area, which guarantees the project's sustainability and supports the development of a sustainable and long-term community.He added: "This project not only enhances tourism but also contributes to creating promising investment opportunities and strengthening the partnership between the public and private sectors, which supports long-term economic development and lays the foundation for an integrated community that aligns with Qatar's future vision."In his speech at the ceremony, Eng. Ali Mohamed Al-Ali, CEO of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, emphasized that this event marks a significant milestone in enhancing Qatar's position as a leading tourism destination on both regional and global levels. He stated: "The Simaisma Project embodies an inspiring vision that reflects our commitment to delivering a world-class entertainment experience with a distinctive Qatari touch. It also aims to attract investments in the tourism sector and create new job opportunities, all while adhering to the highest standards of sustainability, which are integral to Qatar's future vision."He highlighted that Qatari Diar possesses extensive expertise and advanced resources in real estate development, spanning over two decades across 20 cities in 4 continents. These projects cover diverse sectors, including entertainment, commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments, as well as smart cities, infrastructure, and their associated services. Eng. Al-Ali added: “This wealth of experience ensures that our partnership in developing the largest entertainment city in the region is both robust and pioneering, capable of achieving exceptional outcomes."Mr. Fettah Tamince, Founder of FTG Development and President of Land of Legends, said: “We are delighted to bring the unique Land of Legends experience to Qatar with our partner Qatari Diar, creating a destination that is more than just a theme park or hotel. It is a lively world of entertainment and leisure that will add a new dimension to Qatar’s attractions and become a top choice for holidays and fun for millions in the region.”Qatari Diar has a rich portfolio of developments within and outside Qatar, having 50 investment projects under development in 20 countries, combining an investment value of around US$35 billion.

HE Minister of Municipality and Chairman of QatariDiar Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah, emphasized that laying the foundation stone for the Land of Legends Qatar project in Simaisma represents a significant step toward enhancing Qatars position both regionally and internationally as a leading tourist destination.In a press statement during the foundation stone ceremony, His Excellency stated that the Land of Legends project is a cornerstone of Qatar's strategy to diversify its national economy. It offers an exceptional experience that will attract investments and boost the tourism sector.He stressed that the Ministry of Municipality plays a pivotal role in supporting the project through strategies aimed at improving the quality of life, enhancing sustainability, fostering innovation, and providing advanced infrastructure. He noted the Ministrys commitment to meticulous planning and ensuring the project aligns with the master plan for the Simaisma area, ensuring the project's sustainability and supporting the development of a long-term, sustainable community.His Excellency added this project not only enhances tourism but also creates new investment opportunities and strengthens partnerships between the public and private sectors, driving economic development and establishing an integrated community that supports Qatars future vision.For his part, CEO of QatariDiar Eng. Ali bin Mohammed Al Ali highlighted during the ceremony that this event marks a milestone in enhancing Qatars tourism profile regionally and globally.He said that the project embodies an inspiring vision that reflects commitment to offering a world-class entertainment experience with an authentic Qatari touch. He added that it aims to attract investments in the tourism sector, create new job opportunities, and adhere fully to the sustainable development standards that are integral to Qatars future vision.He pointed out that QatariDiar possesses extensive expertise and advanced resources in real estate development, spanning over two decades across 20 cities on four continents. These projects encompass various real estate sectors, including entertainment, commercial, residential, mixed-use developments, smart cities, and infrastructure.He stressed that this expertise makes the partnership in developing the largest entertainment city in the region a strong and pioneering collaboration capable of achieving exceptional milestones.Founder and Chairman of FTG Development and the Land of Legends in Antalya Fettah Tamince expressed his happiness to bring the Land of Legends experience to Qatar, emphasizing that the project represents more than just an entertainment city. He said that the project will not merely be an entertainment city or hotel, but a destination filled with joy and entertainment. He highlighted that the project will add a new dimension to Qatars tourist attractions, making it the top choice for enjoyable holidays for millions of visitors in the region. He noted that the company is investing in Qatar because of its strategic location in the region, its modernity, luxury, safety, infrastructure, airline services, the worlds best airport, world-class cities, and the many international events it hosts. He added that the projects cost is estimated at $3 billion, with construction expected to be completed by 2028.QatariDiar boasts an impressive track record in real estate development projects both inside and outside Qatar. The company currently manages 50 investment projects under development in 20 countries worldwide, with a total investment value of approximately $35 billion.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani affirmed that he discussed with President of the friendly Republic of Colombia Gustavo Petro the development of cooperation mechanisms between the two countries in the political, economic, and commercial fields.In a post on his official 'X' account, His Highness said that he met with President Gustavo Petro of Colombia during his visit to his friendly country, where they discussed the development of cooperation mechanisms in the political, economic, and commercial fields. HH added that there is a shared aspiration to elevate bilateral projects and explore opportunities to develop mutual investments in a way that serves the interests and ambitions of both countries in growth and prosperity.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and President of the friendly Republic of Colombia Gustavo Petro held an official session of talks on Wednesday at the Casa de Narino Presidential Palace in the capital Bogota.At the outset of the session, President of Colombia welcomed HH the Amir and the accompanying delegation, expressing pleasure at HH the Amir's visit and hoping that it would contribute to strengthening cooperation between the two countries and expand it to broader horizons in a way that achieves the interests of the two friendly peoples.Meanwhile, HH the Amir extended his thanks to HE the President for the warm welcome, affirming his keenness to strengthen cooperation with Colombia across various fields. HH also expressed hope that the visit would enhance the exploration of bilateral cooperation opportunities, especially in investment.During the session, the two sides discussed the existing relations of cooperation between the two countries in various fields, and ways to boost and develop them, particularly in investment, economy, and trade.The session also addressed the latest developments in regional and international issues of mutual interest, especially the developments in the Gaza Strip, the occupied Palestinian territories, and Lebanon, as well as the need to intensify efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and reach a ceasefire.The session was attended by HE Chief of the Amiri Diwan Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Khulaifi, HE Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, HE Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani Al-Thani, and HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi along with Their Excellencies members of the official delegation accompanying HH the Amir.On the Colombian side, the session was attended by Vice President and Minister of Equality and Equity Francia Marquez Mina, Minister of Foreign Affairs Luis Gilberto Murillo, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism Luis Carlos, Minister of Mines and Energy Omar Andres Camacho, Minister of Transport Maria Constanza Garcia, Minister of Education Daniel Rojas Medellin, and a number of senior officials.Earlier, HH the Amir and the Colombian President held a bilateral meeting in which they discussed the relations of cooperation between the two countries and ways to enhance and develop them.HH the Amir was accorded an official reception ceremony upon his arrival at the Casa de Narino Presidential PalaceSXS.

Costa Rica’s First Vice-President Stephan Brunner Neibig has praised Qatar’s pioneering role in promoting the values of integrity and transparency at local, regional, and international levels, commending its outstanding efforts in supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency and combating corruption, which contributes to achieving sustainable development and strengthening international partnerships in this field.Brunner explained, in a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), that Qatar’s efforts to combat corruption reflect a positive image globally, especially with the launch of an international award in this field.He pointed out the UN must be a stronger partner in these efforts, adding that it is a mistake to believe that confronting corruption is impossible.“Many people think that there is nothing to do against corruption and we have to fight that idea,” through international co-operation and support for effective initiatives to tackle this phenomenon, he said.On Qatar-Costa Rica bilateral relations, Brunner noted the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of relations between the two countries. He emphasised that the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani represents a turning point in these relations, as he said “we’re very honoured that His Highness the Amir is coming to Costa Rica. We are also trying to have even stronger relationships with Qatar, which I think is a very strong, developed and forward-looking country.”Brunner expressed his happiness with Costa Rica’s selection to host the eighth edition of the HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award, stressing that this event holds great significance for his country. He explained that they have made tangible progress, as they have risen three ranks in the Latin American Index of Anti-Corruption, adding that they are seriously working to become the leading country in this field in the region. Costa Rica’s selection to host the award reflects international recognition of our ongoing efforts to promote integrity and combat corruption, he said.In his speech during the ceremony honouring the award winners, he noted that the visit of His Highness the Amir and his attendance at the award ceremony reflect the strong and longstanding relations between the two countries.Meanwhile, Costa Rican Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship Arnoldo Andre Tinoco praised the bilateral relations with Qatar, noting that they extend to 20 years of fruitful co-operation, and stressed that the visit of the Amir will be an important turning point in strengthening these relations.He said that Costa Rica was the first country in Central America to open an embassy in Doha, adding that bilateral relations between the two countries are witnessing remarkable development through the exchange of ambassadors and high-level visits between the two countries, which reflects the strength of the partnership between the two sides.Chairman of the Costa Rica-Qatar Parliamentary Friendship Group Gilberto Campos emphasised that the visit of the Amir represents a great opportunity for the country and places it in a significant international context.In special remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), he said that the visit of the Amir contributes to strengthening bilateral relations, especially since the two countries share a special relationship across various fields.In a related context, he pointed out that this group aims to strengthen parliamentary, diplomatic, and economic relations between the two countries, and to strengthen the bonds of co-operation between them, in addition to striving to achieve cultural rapprochement and friendship between the peoples of the two countries.He noted that Costa Rica is distinguished by its openness to various countries of the world, and has several free trade agreements with them, saying in this regard that the relationship with the State of Qatar is not new, and there are various points that Costa Rica aspires to strengthen with Qatar on the economic and political levels.He added that Costa Rica’s strategic location allows for increased Qatari investments in this important geographical area.Campos indicated that the ways to enhance the mechanisms of co-operation between Costa Rica and Qatar lie in achieving great rapprochement between the two countries and working to enhance joint parliamentary co-operation between the Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica and the Shura Council, in addition to exchanging information and ideas and determining the parliamentary mechanisms necessary to enhance and develop bilateral relations between the two countries.He noted Costa Rica’s efforts to enhance parliamentary co-operation relations and increase the volume of joint working visits between them, in the interest of the peoples of the two friendly countries.

UN Special Advocate for the Prevention of Corruption HE Dr Ali bin Fetais al-Marri, emphasised that the Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award (ACE Award) serves as a global platform to honour exceptional efforts and highlight successful models that bring positive change to their communities.In his speech during the ceremony honouring the winners of the eighth edition of the award, hosted by Costa Rica, HE Dr al-Marri praised the joint efforts of Qatar and Costa Rica in hosting and organising this prestigious event. He noted that such initiatives contribute to fostering international co-operation and solidifying principles of integrity and justice worldwide.He explained that the selection of Costa Rica to host the eighth edition of the award reflects international recognition of its pioneering efforts in promoting integrity, transparency, and combating corruption, as well as its inspirational role in this field. He remarked that the presence in Costa Rica reaffirms that combating corruption is not merely a dream but a realistic goal that can be achieved when dedicated individuals work sincerely and with a firm belief in a better future.HE Dr al-Marri called for a clear and comprehensive declaration of war against corruption, emphasising the urgent need to focus on this critical issue in Latin America and other regions of the world.He stressed that international collaboration between governments, civil society, and academic institutions is a fundamental pillar for successfully addressing this phenomenon, which hinders development and stability.lUN Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions Alexander Zouev has praised Qatar’s dedication to honouring global efforts in combating corruption through the HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award.In his speech during the ceremony honouring the award winners, Zouev emphasised that Qatar’s initiative significantly contributes to raising global awareness and fostering international co-operation to combat corruption. He noted that such efforts support justice, peace, and sustainable development. He also expressed his gratitude to Qatar, Costa Rica, and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Centre for organising and hosting this timely global event.The UN official highlighted the close connection between corruption and organised crime, illicit exploitation of resources, human trafficking, and smuggling of goods. He stressed that corruption undermines human rights, particularly affecting women and youth, especially in fragile and conflict-prone areas.Corruption, he added, poses a threat to global peace and security and hampers economic growth and human development.

Qatar Foundation (QF) has signed a co-operation agreement with the Sheikh Abdullah Al-Ansari Complex for the Holy Qur’an and Sciences to enrich the Rasekh initiative, designed to link curriculum with local knowledge, language, culture, heritage, and values.Through this agreement, the initiative will provide religious and Islamic studies content, as it will introduce additional resources, discussions, and learning materials into schools across Qatar.“This agreement marks a pivotal step in our effort to enhance educational content with resources that uphold Islamic values,” said Maryam al-Hajri, director of Partnerships at the QF’s Pre-University Education Rasekh initiative. “Our collaboration aims to provide content that educates students while strengthening their connection to cultural and religious values.“Within the Rasekh initiative, we are committed to enriching the school ecosystem through various programmes, curricula, and exhibitions that support sustainable learning and meet the needs of future generations.“This collaboration reflects a shared vision with the Sheikh Abdullah Al-Ansari Complex Holy Qur’an and Sciences to serve the Qatari community by providing high-quality educational resources that align with its aspirations and values, helping to build an informed society rooted in its authentic values.”Al-Hajri emphasised that through this partnership, they aim to foster an environment of knowledge sharing and understanding among students of all backgrounds, saying: “In educational settings, knowledge sharing empowers learners to build on each other’s strengths, nurturing a culture of continuous learning and mutual support that benefits both individuals and society.“We provide these educational resources to schools within and beyond Qatar Foundation, as well as to the broader community. These resources are developed with the expertise of our partners and come in various forms, including teaching tools, videos, and interactive materials, offering teachers a range of engaging resources.”The platform, launched by QF in 2022 in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, aims to share the depth and breadth of the local knowledge, innovation, and research with learners of all ages and educators in Qatar and beyond.

Acclaimed authors Omar El Akkad and Kamila Shamsie engaged the Qatar public in a dialogue on human-made catastrophes and the art of storytelling at a special event at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q).Organised by the Programme in Energy Humanities at GU-Q, the discussion explored how narratives emerging from catastrophic events, such as El Akkad’s post-apocalyptic novel American War – which details a world shattered by a poorly managed energy transition – can bridge perspectives and inspire change.Dr Victoria Googasian, co-coordinator of the Programme in Energy Humanities, and assistant professor of American Literature, introduced the author, highlighting how El Akkad’s novels challenge comforting narratives of progress.“His work is a warning about what happens when we fail to question our preferences for ‘pleasant fantasy’,” she said.She went on to tie the book to the initiative, which aims to illuminate the human costs of energy systems and the political will sustaining them, to foster deeper understanding and advocacy for change.GU-Q dean Safwan Masri welcomed El Akkad, emphasising the importance of the event’s themes.Addressing students, he urged them to embrace the challenge presented by the authors to “think more deeply, care more profoundly, and act more responsibly.”Moderated by GU-Q Writer-in-Residence Kamila Shamsie, the conversation delved into the role of authentic storytelling in reflecting the human condition.Shamsie, an award-winning author of eight books including Home Fire, drew on her literary expertise to guide the discussion.El Akkad shared insights from his journalism career, which informed his fiction by capturing the lived experiences of those impacted by violence, catastrophes, and global systems contributing to war and climate collapse.Speaking about the central theme of American War, El Akkad noted: “Climate change is about stubbornness, which I think of as fundamental to the human condition.” He described how this stubbornness often stems from avoiding the discomfort of confronting uncomfortable truths.His forthcoming non-fiction book on Gaza, One Day Everyone Would Have Always Been Against This, also grapples with these themes. “I write overwhelmingly about systems that I think are inherently unjust, and about the collective cowardice, including my own cowardice, in holding up those systems” said El Akkad.“You’re doing the optimistic thing about anguish and despair,” commented Shamsie, adding: “something in that seems to sum up the way we are as people and how we’re living – we hold this knowledge about what we’re doing and the horrific potential effects of it.”In a time of scepticism about the value of literature and investigative reporting, the event underscored the power of evocative storytelling to reveal the consequences of our actions and influence individual and collective decisions.

A Qatari aircraft carrying the second batch of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) Scan devices landed in Port Sudan in response to the needs of the Sudanese federal ministry of health.The humanitarian aid was received by Acting Federal Minister of Health of Sudan, Dr Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim, and Qatar’s ambassador to Sudan, Mohamed bin Ibrahim al-Sada.The first batch of Qatari medical aid had arrived in Port Sudan earlier this year. Additionally, this support is part of Qatar’s solidarity with the people of Sudan and their resilience in enduring the difficult conditions they currently face due to the ongoing conflict.

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani (FBQ) Museum, in collaboration with the Years of Culture initiative, hosted the official opening of Morocco: The Land of Travellers, an exhibition celebrating Morocco’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The exhibition is a key event in the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, an ongoing cultural exchange that deepens understanding between nations and people through a series of programmes related to all aspects of culture in Qatar and partner countries. Featuring more than 70 artefacts from the museum’s extensive collection, the exhibition will be on view through February, 2025. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal al-Thani, and Sheikh Turki bin Faisal al-Thani, along with the Moroccan ambassador Mohamed Setri, Unesco Office in Doha for the Gulf States and Yemen director Salah Khaled, ARIES Group general manager Mona El Helbawi, directors and senior management from Qatar Museums, representatives from ICOM, and other dignitaries. Sheikh Faisal said: “We were pleased to participate in the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, as part of Qatar’s pioneering Years of Culture initiative. Through the Morocco: The Land of Travellers exhibition, we renewed a valuable opportunity to enhance awareness of ancient Moroccan heritage and its deep-rooted history. “Morocco is a country rich in history and culture that transcends borders and inspires every lover of civilisation. We hope that the diverse collection of Moroccan heritage pieces in the museum will contribute to enriching knowledge and promoting a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Morocco.” Ambassador Setri stated: “First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani for his generous patronage and invaluable efforts. I am delighted to accept his invitation to attend the exhibition Morocco: Land of Travellers, which reflects his prominent role in supporting culture, art, and heritage both locally and internationally.” “This year, we have seen an extraordinary commitment from partners, public and private organisations alike, eager to join in celebrating the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture. The collaboration with the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum has been an exciting addition to the programme,” said Sara al-Mohannadi, secretary of the National Committee for the Years of Culture. The exhibition, Morocco: The Land of Travellers, is structured into three key sections: Morocco, the Multicoloured House of Generosity, Morocco Writes History, and Lions of the Atlas. Each section offers a unique perspective on Morocco’s cultural legacy and historical significance.

Qatar University (QU) celebrated the graduation of the 13th cohort of the Generations Empowerment Consortium. This initiative aimed to invest in national talent in health and medical sciences. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Omar bin Mohammed al-Ansari, president of QU, emphasised that this national initiative bridges education and healthcare, paving new pathways for students toward a promising future. He highlighted the consortium’s embodiment of QU’s commitment to nurturing the scientific and practical capabilities of students in diverse fields such as healthcare, biodiversity research, genomics, precision medicine, and other disciplines that enhance human well-being and to balance societal ecosystems. Dr al-Ansari further remarked that QU firmly believes in the abilities of its students. Through this initiative, the university provided an integrated environment that combines education with practical training in collaboration with its health and education sector partners. He noted that this unique opportunity allows students to engage with a network of experts, scientists, and healthcare providers, equipping them with skills to lead future advancements in health and medical sciences. Prof Asma al-Thani, vice-president for Health and Medical Sciences at QU, shared that the latest round of applications received 926 submissions, out of which 230 students were selected to participate in training programmes such as Health, Qatar Scientists in Biodiversity, and Genomics and Precision Medicine. The training spanned two consecutive weeks, with a new addition this year focusing on empowering children. Prof al-Thani added: “The Generations Empowerment Consortium reflects a national unity that integrates education and healthcare, elevating the ambitions of young people. The consortium seeks to create an inclusive environment fostering collaboration between students and healthcare providers through structured training programmes at the university campus. This approach supports young generations from an early stage, enabling them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the flourishing health sector.” Highlighting key achievements, Prof al-Thani noted that the proportion of Qatari students in the healthcare sector has risen significantly, from 6% in 2013 to 42% in 2024. The consortium has contributed approximately 40-45 % of these figures. Furthermore, this initiative has been documented in internationally published scientific research and officially accredited by the Ministry of Education as a community service training entity for public and private schools. The consortium has also signed several co-operation agreements with health sector partners and has won more than five international awards. Established in 2013 to support Qatar National Vision 2030, the Generations Empowerment Consortium is the only initiative of its kind in Qatar. It unites 13 partners from the health, research, and education sectors, operating on a data-driven approach that underscores its effectiveness.