Qatar has firmly established itself as a proactive player on the international stage, emphasizing its commitment to combat violent extremism, promoting sports among youth, and strengthening its bilateral relations with countries like Rwanda. These initiatives collectively reflect Qatar's policy of engagement and cooperation with diverse nations.
Recently, Qatar participated in a significant discussion session titled "Strengthening Community Mechanisms to Prevent Violent Extremism" to mark the third anniversary of the "International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism." This event, hosted by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) at its headquarters in Geneva, was represented by the Acting Charge d'Affaires of Qatar's Permanent Delegation to the UN, Jawhara bint Abdulaziz Al Suwaidi.
During her opening remarks, Al Suwaidi emphasized the importance of the International Day established by UN General Assembly Resolution 77/243, adopted on December 20, 2022. The resolution is instrumental for raising awareness about the risks posed by violent extremism and enhancing global initiatives to counter it. "This year's observance coincides with the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter, founded on the principles of promoting peace and security, protecting human rights, eradiciting poverty, and fostering justice and equality," she stated.
Al Suwaidi noted Qatar's position as one of the first countries to support the establishment of GCERF and to propose the UN resolution declaring February 12 as the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism. She reiterated Qatar's condemnation of violent extremism and emphasized the necessity for direct engagement with affected communities to eradicate it effectively. Al Suwaidi highlighted the need for comprehensive and multidimensional approaches to tackle the root causes of violence, encompassing education and poverty reduction strategies.
Shifting focus to another significant event, the Qatar Gymnastics Federation (QGF) announced the Qatar International Friendship Artistic Gymnastics Championship set for February 21-22 at Aspire Academy. This event will feature talented female gymnasts from six countries—Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq—divided across 16 teams.
QGF President Ali Al Hitmi conveyed the purpose of the championship at the press conference, stating, "The Qatar International Friendship Championship serves as a valuable opportunity for clubs and academies to gain experience through strong competition." The event allows young athletes to prepare for larger international tournaments and showcases the capabilities of these young competitors.
Abeer Al Buainain, QGF Secretary-General, expressed excitement for the event, recognizing the rarity of competitions for girls aged 7 to 16. "This championship is invaluable for the athletes to display their skills and compete at high levels," she remarked.
Al Hamad provided details on the tournament schedule, affirming adherence to the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) regulations to maintain official status. "All competitions will begin at 8 AM, leading to the crowning of winners across different age categories," he added.
Tickets for the event are expected to attract significant attendance, priced starting at QAR 30, showcasing Qatar's commitment to fostering sports among youth.
Simultaneously, Qatar is deepening its relationship with Rwanda, as the two nations maintain exceptional ties aimed at mutual development. Holding diplomatic relations since 2017, Qatar and Rwanda are immersed in continuously exploring collaborative opportunities across various fields, focusing on economic growth and partnership.
The partnership has led to multiple agreements and memorandums covering politics, trade, agriculture, and aviation, including significant initiatives like the acquisition of 60% share of the Bugesera International Airport by Qatar. Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed Rwanda’s intention to strengthen economic cooperation, positioning Rwanda as one of the fastest-growing economies on the continent.
To bolster these efforts, the Qatar Fund for Development deposited ratification for a $10 million agreement with the UN Office supporting the Doha Programme of Action (2023-2031). Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN, HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, remarked on the importance of global partnerships to address the needs of vulnerable groups and promote sustainable development.
The UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for OHRLLS, Rabab Fatima, noted this agreement will enable intensified action aligned with the Doha Programme’s priorities, tackling issues like poverty eradication and climate change adaptation.
These events and partnerships collectively underline Qatar's proactive approach, emphasizing continuous engagements with international mechanisms and its solid commitment to leveraging sports and dialogue for development.