The Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva, HE Dr Hind Abdulrahman Al Muftah, recently participated in a session at the World Trade Organization (WTO) headquarters in Geneva. The session, titled “Sustainable Trade and Entrepreneurship: Pathways to Re-Globalisation,” focused on the importance of sustainable trade as a means to foster global cooperation, social development, and resilience. Dr Al Muftah emphasized the role of the WTO in promoting sustainability in global trade practices.
Qatar has long been committed to promoting sustainable development and supporting international agreements and partnerships. Dr Al Muftah highlighted Qatar’s efforts in supporting global humanitarian initiatives and its innovative approach to sustainable development, as outlined in the Doha Program of Action for the Least Developed Countries. She also stressed the importance of peace, noting that sustainable trade and peace are interconnected and require collective action and a commitment to justice and fairness.
One of Qatar’s recent initiatives to promote sustainable trade is its formal acceptance of the WTO’s Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. By accepting this agreement, Qatar is demonstrating its commitment to protecting the marine ecosystem and promoting environmental sustainability. Dr Al Muftah expressed hope that Qatar’s leadership in this area would inspire other WTO members to take similar steps to strengthen global efforts for marine sustainability and the preservation of livelihoods dependent on it.
Dr Al Muftah also referenced a summit organized under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with UNESCO. The summit focused on how businesses can align their economic, social, and environmental goals with operational strategies, highlighting Qatar’s commitment to a balanced and sustainable global future. This summit showcased Qatar’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices in various sectors of the economy.
In her address, Dr Al Muftah emphasized that sustainable trade is not just a tool for economic growth, but a pathway to deeper global cooperation and social development. She underscored the importance of sustainable trade and entrepreneurship in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, economic inequalities, and the need for inclusive development. Qatar’s commitment to sustainable trade is evident in its support for global humanitarian efforts and innovative approaches to sustainable development.
Overall, Qatar’s leadership in promoting sustainable trade and environmental sustainability is commendable. By actively participating in sessions and initiatives at international organizations like the WTO and partnering with other entities like UNESCO, Qatar is demonstrating its commitment to fostering global cooperation, social development, and resilience through sustainable trade practices. Dr Al Muftah’s remarks highlight Qatar’s dedication to promoting peace, sustainability, and inclusive development on the global stage.