The Shura Council hailed the outcomes of the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s official visit to the Russian Federation last week. They praised his talks with President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin.
Chaired by Speaker Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim and attended by Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani Al Thani, the Council noted that the talks bolstered bilateral cooperation across various fields. They highlighted the two countries’ shared positions on regional and international issues. They particularly emphasized efforts supporting peace in the Middle East.
The Council stated that the Amir’s visit reflects the leadership’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. Moreover, it further shows cooperation across areas of mutual interest.
Separately, the Shura Council strongly condemned recent provocative suggestions by parties affiliated with the Israeli occupation to demolish Al-Aqsa Mosque and construct a temple in its place. The Council described the proposals as dangerous incitement and a serious threat to regional stability.
In response, the Council reiterated its rejection of any changes to the historical and legal status of Al-Aqsa Mosque and Jerusalem. They are calling on the international community to uphold its responsibilities in protecting Islamic holy sites. They also demand ensuring the occupation ends its repeated violations.
The Council also reaffirmed Qatar’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and the rights of the Palestinian people. They particularly emphasized the establishment of an independent state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with international resolutions.
During the session, the Minister of Commerce and Industry outlined the 2024–2030 Strategy of the Ministry, focusing on economic diversification, business environment development, and support for non-oil sectors. These plans are in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.
The strategy includes initiatives to diversify income sources and boost non-oil revenues. It also aims to support trade and industry and attract both local and foreign investment. The minister highlighted efforts to digitize services, simplify commercial procedures, and enhance consumer protection through digital and field monitoring systems.
Support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) was also emphasized, with a range of incentives and facilities aimed at increasing competitiveness and market participation. The ministry is working to improve intellectual property protections and update legislation related to patents and trademarks, thereby promoting innovation across sectors.
Efforts to protect Qatari products include marketing and technical support, improved supply chains, and new domestic and international market access. The ministry is also reviewing commercial activity-related fees to balance investment incentives with sustainable resource management.
The speaker praised the Ministry’s pivotal role in driving economic diversification, empowering the private sector, and stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship. He stressed the importance of integrated strategies to address global economic challenges and achieve sustainable development goals.
Following the presentation, Shura Council members commended the Ministry’s work in enhancing the commercial and industrial sectors. They also praised efforts in improving the investment climate and supporting local industries. They called for continued efforts to position Qatar as a regional and global hub for trade and industry.
Members also raised concerns about expanding e-commerce oversight, simplifying investor procedures, and supporting national SMEs. They also discussed promoting agricultural and local production initiatives.
They underscored the importance of the “One-Stop Shop” in easing company establishment. Members called for technical and logistical enhancements to improve the user experience.
Other topics included consumer protection, reducing commercial costs, and improving product affordability. The ration card system was also discussed. Members proposed an increase in supported items and enhancements to better meet citizens’ needs amid market changes.
The minister welcomed the Council’s feedback and confirmed that new initiatives will be launched in the coming phase. These aim to support economic development, improve market efficiency, and enhance quality of life.
Concluding the session, Speaker Al Ghanim briefed the Council on his recent participation in the inaugural meeting of the Parliamentary Group in Solidarity with Palestine, held in Istanbul. The meeting aimed to unify parliamentary positions in support of the Palestinian people and address the Israeli aggression on Gaza.
He noted the Joint Declaration affirmed the Palestinian right to an independent state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
