Doha, Qatar – Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani highlighted the State of Qatar’s significant progress across all sectors as the nation observes its annual National Day. The observance, commemorating the founding of Qatar, comes as the country continues to implement its long-term vision for sustainable development and global engagement. This year’s celebrations emphasize unity and a commitment to future prosperity.
The Prime Minister stated that the 2023 National Day slogan, “With You It Rises, From You It Awaits,” reflects Qatar’s confidence and reliance on the contributions of its citizens and residents. According to the official Qatar News Agency, the slogan underscores the expectation that all will work towards sustaining Qatar’s leadership in key areas while upholding its cultural and religious values.
Qatar’s National Day Celebrations Reflect Continued Growth
Qatar’s National Day is observed annually on December 18th, commemorating the day Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani assumed leadership in 1878. This date marks a pivotal moment in Qatar’s history, signifying the beginning of its journey towards independence and modernization. The celebrations serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by previous generations to establish and defend the nation.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that Qatar’s development is guided by Qatar National Vision 2030, a comprehensive roadmap for the country’s future. The vision focuses on diversifying the economy, investing in human capital, and promoting sustainable development. The Prime Minister noted strong economic growth and the translation of the vision into tangible results in sectors like energy, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Economic Diversification and the Third National Development Strategy
A key component of Qatar’s progress is its ongoing effort to diversify its economy away from reliance on hydrocarbons. The country is actively investing in sectors such as tourism, finance, and technology to create new opportunities and ensure long-term economic stability. This diversification is central to the goals outlined in Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy for 2024-2030, which was developed under the guidance of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Additionally, Qatar is focused on developing its human capital through investments in education and training programs. These initiatives aim to equip citizens with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly changing global economy. The government has also prioritized social welfare programs to ensure a high quality of life for all residents.
Qatar’s Role in Regional and International Diplomacy
Beyond domestic achievements, Qatar has increasingly positioned itself as a key player in regional and international diplomacy. The Prime Minister highlighted the country’s commitment to promoting peace and security through active participation in the global community. He specifically mentioned Qatar’s mediation efforts, which have become a cornerstone of its foreign policy.
Qatar has been actively involved in mediating conflicts, including the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip and efforts to bring peace to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. These efforts, rooted in a tradition of dialogue championed by the founder Sheikh Jassim, demonstrate Qatar’s commitment to peaceful resolutions. The country’s approach, described as “quiet diplomacy,” has earned it credibility as a neutral mediator.
Furthermore, Qatar’s commitment to international cooperation is demonstrated by its bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This bid builds on the success of hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, showcasing the country’s organizational capabilities and advanced infrastructure. The country also ranks highly in global peace indices, being named among the safest and most socially peaceful nations in the Middle East and North Africa, according to recent reports.
Looking ahead, Qatar will continue to focus on implementing its national development strategies and strengthening its role in international affairs. The success of the 2036 Olympic bid remains a key objective, and the country will likely continue to prioritize mediation efforts in various regional conflicts. The ongoing geopolitical landscape and fluctuations in the global energy market will be crucial factors to watch as Qatar navigates its future path.
Source: Qatar News Agency
Source: The Peninsula Qatar
Global Peace Index
