Doha: The Second World Summit for Social Development commenced in Doha today, marking a pivotal gathering of international leaders, senior United Nations officials, civil society representatives, and private sector stakeholders. This summit, held three decades after its predecessor in Copenhagen in 1995, arrives at a crucial juncture as the world grapples with challenges such as widening inequality, a slowdown in poverty eradication efforts, diminishing trust in multilateral institutions, and the escalating impacts of climate change and conflicts.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al-Arab’s editorial emphasized the need for renewed global dialogue to address these mounting challenges. The newspaper highlighted the importance of engaging leaders from various sectors to accelerate social progress and strengthen international efforts towards equality, inclusion, and empowerment. Hosting the summit in Doha signifies Qatar’s commitment to social and sustainable development, a vision championed by HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who places human development at the forefront of progress.
The editorial from Al-Watan pointed out Qatar’s robust foreign relations, which are rooted in political, economic, humanitarian, and developmental cooperation. The recent discussions held by HH the Amir with world leaders, including HM King Philippe of Belgium, HE President Gustavo Petro of Colombia, and HE Han Zheng, Vice President of China, underscore Qatar’s role as a mediator in international conflicts. These talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across multiple fields.
Al-Watan further stressed that Qatar’s hosting of the summit reflects its active participation in the international community, committed to supporting efforts that consolidate the values of equality and empowerment. The anticipated Doha Political Declaration is expected to foster multilateral cooperation and pave the way for a more just and humane global order.
Meanwhile, The Peninsula highlighted the significance of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, which demonstrates a new model of international cooperation. The announcements from Ethiopia, Haiti, Kenya, Palestine, and Zambia, presenting national programs backed by global coalitions, indicate a shift from rhetoric to action. The editorial underscored Qatar’s role as a host of the First Leaders’ Meeting, recognizing the Gulf states’ shared responsibility for global stability and prosperity.
In conclusion, the summit in Doha serves as a global platform for exchanging knowledge and best practices, aiming to achieve more inclusive and sustainable development. The collective action displayed at the summit suggests that the goal of eradicating hunger and poverty is becoming increasingly attainable.