Doha, Qatar – Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, convened with a delegation from The Elders on Sunday, signaling continued commitment to international diplomacy and Doha Forum initiatives. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 23rd Doha Forum 2025, focused on bolstering cooperation and supporting the global organization’s efforts in conflict resolution. Key figures from The Elders, including Mary Robinson and Prince Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, participated in the discussions.
The encounter took place in Doha, Qatar, on December 7, 2025, as the Doha Forum brings together policymakers and thought leaders to address pressing global issues. Discussions centered on shared interests and exploring opportunities for Qatar to assist The Elders in their work promoting peace and ethical governance. This meeting highlights Qatar’s role as a mediator and facilitator in international affairs.
Strengthening Ties with The Elders and the Importance of Conflict Resolution
The meeting between Sheikh Mohammed and The Elders delegation underlined the mutual desire to enhance collaboration in several critical areas. These include addressing global governance challenges and finding pathways to de-escalate and resolve international conflicts. According to official statements, both sides engaged in a comprehensive exchange of views on the key themes presented at the Doha Forum.
The Role of The Elders
The Elders, founded in 2007 by the late Nelson Mandela, is an independent group of global leaders dedicated to offering an independent moral voice on the world stage. The organization does not receive funding from governments and relies on philanthropic donations to support its work. Its mandate focuses on advocating for peace, human rights and sustainable development.
The organisation distinguishes itself through discreet diplomacy and high-level advocacy. However, The Elders’ influence stems primarily from the stature and moral authority of its members. They frequently undertake mediation efforts in regions experiencing instability and often contribute to crucial conversations on global challenges.
Qatar’s ongoing support for organisations like The Elders is consistent with its broader foreign policy objectives. These objectives prioritize peaceful resolutions to disputes and a commitment to multilateralism. This approach has seen Qatar play a significant role in mediating various conflicts, most notably in Afghanistan and Sudan.
Doha Forum 2025: A Platform for Global Dialogue
The Doha Forum, now in its 23rd year, serves as a crucial platform for international dialogue on a diverse range of geopolitical and socioeconomic concerns. This year’s forum focuses on topics like climate change, food security, and the evolving landscape of global power dynamics. The Forum’s agenda aims to provide actionable insights and foster collaboration among participating nations.
The meeting with The Elders occurred amidst a busy schedule of bilateral talks and panel discussions throughout the Doha Forum. Qatar’s engagement with The Elders underscores the country’s desire to leverage these platforms for positive change. Furthermore, this represents a continued push for responsible global governance in the face of increasing international complexities.
In contrast to some regional players, Qatar consistently positions itself as a facilitator and mediator, rather than a direct participant in furthering conflicts. This strategy has allowed Qatar to maintain relationships with a broad spectrum of international actors, even those with opposing interests. The country is also known for its humanitarian aid and development initiatives across the globe, which complements its diplomatic efforts.
Looking ahead, the outcome of the Doha Forum and the specific forms of cooperation between Qatar and The Elders remain to be seen. Ongoing discussions and potential joint initiatives will likely unfold in the coming months. Observers will be watching for concrete steps demonstrating Qatar’s commitment to supporting The Elders’ work and contributing to a more peaceful and sustainable world. Further details regarding specific collaborative projects are expected to be announced after further consultations between the two parties, with no firm deadline currently established.