The Qatar General Organization for Standards and Metrology (QGOSM) recently participated in the annual meetings of the Standard and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC) in Istanbul, Turkey. Led by HE Engineer Mohammed bin Saud Mohammed Al Musallam, the Qatari delegation took part in discussions on aligning standards specifications across member states to improve quality of life and foster trade relations. The meeting included representatives from 48 member states of the Islamic world, as well as officials from regional and international organizations specializing in standards, quality assurance, and accreditation.
During the meetings, the Qatari delegation attended sessions of the Metrology Council and the General Assembly of the Institute. The Metrology Council focuses on standards specifications and their application, while the General Assembly reviewed the Institute’s accomplishments and strategic plan for 2021-2030. The financial report for 2024, proposed budget for 2025, and appointment of an external auditor were also discussed. Additionally, new Board of Directors members were elected for the 2025-2027 term, with Turkey holding a permanent seat due to hosting the Institute’s headquarters.
The initiative to create a unified standardization mechanism among Islamic countries dates back to 1984, during the inaugural meeting of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (COMCEC). The Group of Standardization Experts for Islamic Countries was established in 1985, leading to the approval of SMIIC’s statute in 1998. QGOSM officially joined SMIIC in 2018, in line with Qatar’s longstanding membership in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) since 1972.
SMIIC plays a crucial role in promoting standardization and metrology activities among Islamic countries, aiming to enhance the quality of products and services while reducing technical barriers to trade. By aligning standards specifications and implementing quality assurance mechanisms, SMIIC seeks to improve trade relations within the region and globally. The Institute’s focus on facilitating cooperation and harmonization of standards across member states contributes to the economic development and growth of Islamic countries.
Participation in SMIIC meetings allows QGOSM to stay updated on the latest developments in standardization and metrology within the Islamic world. By engaging with experts and officials from member states, QGOSM can share best practices, exchange knowledge, and contribute to the advancement of standards and quality assurance practices. The collaborative efforts of member states within SMIIC demonstrate a commitment to enhancing trade relations, promoting economic growth, and improving the quality of products and services for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.
In conclusion, QGOSM’s participation in the annual meetings of SMIIC in Istanbul highlights Qatar’s commitment to promoting standardization and quality assurance practices within the Islamic world. By actively engaging in discussions and decision-making processes, QGOSM contributes to the achievement of SMIIC’s objectives and fosters cooperation among member states. The Institute’s focus on aligning standards specifications and improving trade relations underscores the importance of harmonizing standards to enhance the quality of products and services in the region and globally. Moving forward, continued collaboration within SMIIC will further promote economic development, trade facilitation, and mutual growth among Islamic countries.
