Blockade has spurred innovation, development, says Sheikha Hind

The blockade imposed on Qatar by some of its neighbouring countries hasfurther enhanced Qatar’s strong belief in the importance of innovation,research, and development, said HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani,vice chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF).Sheikha Hind was speaking at the inaugural session of the AnnualResearch Conference 2018 which was attended by Her Highness Sheikha Mozabint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, HE Dr Khalid bin Mohamedal-Attiyah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for DefenceAffairs, HE Dr Mohamed bin Saleh al-Sada, Minister of Energy andIndustry and a number of international experts in various researchfields. “The blockade represents a challenge for us to persevere and pursueinnovation; we see it as an opportunity to continue co-operation andresearch partnerships, and to make further contribution to thedevelopment of Qatar,” said Sheikha Hind.“The blockade has motivated us to strive for economic independence anddevote our efforts to make Qatar a regional and international centre forresearch and development, through co-operation with partners,governments, and research institutions, both locally and globally,” theQF vice chairperson said.“As the blockade continues, Qatar has unveiled its second nationaldevelopment plan, focusing on building human and institutionalcapacities, developing a system that supports entrepreneurship andpromotes research and development. The plan comes in the context ofefforts aiming to achieve sustainable development and accelerateprogress and innovation,” noted the QF CEO.According to Sheikha Hind, the Annual Research Conference fulfils thisrole and it stems from Qatar Foundation’s efforts to address majornational challenges, contribute to the establishment of a diverse andsustainable economy, and provide effective and impactful solutions.  She said that focusing on national priorities, the conference recognisessolution-based research as the best means for greater prosperity andregional security. “Based on our firm belief that research, technology,and development are among the most important elements of a competitiveand diverse economy, our main areas of interest at Qatar Foundationremain research and development, along with empowering and activatingresearch innovations across Qatar. Research offers a significant contribution to promoting human capitaldevelopment and supporting the growth of local institutions throughoutthe region, thus helping to provide security that can mitigate thecurrent turmoil in the region,” she said.“The current circumstances require us to take effective and carefulmeasures, and to exert more efforts to raise the banner of Qatar byinvesting in the brightest minds. I invite you all to co-operatetogether to achieve the desired positive impacts,” Sheikha Hind said. The QF CEO also highlighted that Qatar Foundation collaborates withstakeholders in the public and private sectors to shape the future ofresearch and development, both inside and outside the country to provideinnovative and research-based solutions. “Through our concerted efforts, we can achieve our vision and goals in amanner that fortifies Qatar and all its residents. Our efforts will notstop at this point, but like our nation, we share the fruits of ourwork, our experiences, and our ideas for the benefit of all,” addedSheikha Hind.