Introduction to the Amir’s Address
His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani recently inaugurated the first regular session of the second legislative term, which corresponds to the 54th annual session of the Shura Council. In his address, the Amir expressed his pleasure in meeting the members of the esteemed Council at the beginning of the new legislative term, wishing them success and guidance in discharging their legislative duties.
Economic Performance and Development
The Amir commended the Council for its effective legislative role and its positive contributions to regional and international parliamentary organizations during the previous term. He highlighted the strength of the national economy, which continues to perform positively despite global volatility. By the grace of Allah and through the State’s rational and balanced policies, Qatar has maintained macroeconomic stability and investor confidence in the efficiency of its resource management. The Third National Development Strategy aims to achieve seven main national outcomes over the next five years, encompassing sixteen sectors and eight economic clusters. Indicators reveal a promising performance, with the Qatari economy recording a 2.4% growth rate in 2024 and 1.9% year-on-year growth during the second quarter of 2025.
Qatar National Vision 2030
The Amir emphasized the State’s ongoing efforts to translate the Qatar National Vision 2030 into tangible reality, noting the significant progress achieved in energy, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfare. Qatar’s growing status as a hub for investment in competitive sectors such as technology and tourism was also highlighted, while underscoring the need to double efforts to achieve further accomplishments. The financial sector remains robust, supported by a 3.7% annual increase in international reserves and foreign currency liquidity at the Qatar Central Bank by the end of 2024, and by Qatar’s high sovereign credit ratings with major global agencies.
Energy Sector and Environmental Sustainability
In reference to the energy sector, the Amir praised its continued growth despite regional and global challenges, affirming Qatar’s commitment to uninterrupted energy production and global supply. He also highlighted the inauguration of two new solar photovoltaic power plants in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed, reflecting the State’s dedication to environmental sustainability and clean energy transition. The Amir stressed that human capital is the true wealth of any nation, emphasizing Qatar’s continued investment in developing its education and training systems to prepare national cadres capable of meeting labor market demands with competence and merit.
Education, Human Development, and Family Upbringing
The Amir noted that Qatar is entering a new stage marked by economic expansion and an evolving societal role. He called for citizens to assume greater responsibility, remain open to innovation and global advancement, and balance material progress with the preservation of authentic values and cultural identity. The Amir reiterated the importance of family upbringing, urging parents to take an active role in nurturing their children’s values and education. He also affirmed the State’s commitment to supporting and empowering private enterprise, praising the efforts of Qatar Development Bank and relevant institutions in providing financing, insurance, and guarantees.
Foreign Policy and International Relations
On foreign policy, the Amir reaffirmed Qatar’s steadfast commitment to promoting regional and global peace, supporting the aspirations of the Arab and Islamic nations for stability, and contributing actively to humanitarian and mediation efforts. He noted that Qatar’s mediation initiatives had enhanced its global standing, associating its name with peace, dialogue, and humanitarian commitment. The Amir referred to recent violations of Qatar’s sovereignty, condemning these acts as blatant violations of international law. He also addressed the ongoing tragedy in the Gaza Strip, describing the events of the past two years as genocide and lamenting the inability of international legitimacy to protect the Palestinian people.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Amir’s address highlighted Qatar’s continued progress and development in various sectors, including the economy, energy, education, and foreign policy. The State’s commitment to preserving and developing its blessings for the benefit of future generations was reaffirmed. The Amir’s emphasis on the importance of human capital, family upbringing, and private enterprise underscored the need for a balanced approach to development, one that combines economic growth with social and cultural progress. As Qatar continues to navigate the complexities of the global landscape, its commitment to peace, dialogue, and humanitarian efforts will remain a guiding principle in its foreign policy and international relations.
