Dr. Hamda bint Hassan Al Sulaiti, the Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council in Qatar, recently highlighted the Council’s commitment to utilizing parliamentary diplomacy to enhance the country’s foreign relations and strengthen its international standing. In an interview on the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism, she emphasized the vital role of parliaments in promoting popular participation, good governance, and development efforts. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Parliamentary diplomacy: Building bridges for peace and understanding,” underscores the importance of parliamentary work in achieving peace, justice, and sustainable development.
Dr. Al Sulaiti emphasized the significance of parliamentary institutions in shaping policies and laws that serve the interests of the people, enhance public participation in decision-making, and educate the public on international issues. She also highlighted the Shura Council’s efforts in building relationships and strengthening cooperation with various parliamentary and international organizations. The theme of this year’s celebration sends a message to parliaments worldwide to build consensus, enhance international cooperation, and involve all segments of society, including women and youth, in parliamentary work for comprehensive and sustainable development.
The Shura Council actively participates in international parliamentary events, supports Arab and Islamic causes, and voices the concerns and aspirations of Qatari citizens on the global stage. Dr. Al Sulaiti noted the Council’s efforts in promoting the roles of women and youth through dedicated meetings and providing the necessary support to strengthen their importance in society. The Council plays a crucial role in activities and programs of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), proposing initiatives to enhance international parliamentary work and seeking to implement best practices through experience exchange with other parliaments.
The Shura Council’s active presence in international parliamentary initiatives reflects Qatar’s dynamic diplomacy and sets a global example. The Council has supported Qatar’s mediation efforts by providing parliamentary backing for government initiatives aimed at resolving disputes and building communication bridges with other parliaments. Dr. Al Sulaiti highlighted the international community’s appreciation of Qatar’s mediation efforts to resolve conflicts, evidenced by positive remarks from national parliaments, regional and international parliamentary unions, and organizations.
Dr. Al Sulaiti emphasized the importance of parliaments enhancing international cooperation and solidarity to prevent and peacefully resolve conflicts, as well as increasing oversight to ensure governments fulfill their international commitments in human rights and sustainable development. She called on parliaments to press their governments to prevent human rights violations during wars and conflicts, comply with international norms and laws, and prioritize dialogue over war. The Deputy Speaker affirmed the Shura Council’s active role and support for the union’s activities, with the IPU President and Secretary-General praising the Council’s effective participation in international parliamentary initiatives.
