Ashraf Siddiqui
Engineers Australia (Qatar Chapter), a community forum of engineers educated from Australian institutions, hosted a ‘CEO Panel Discussion’ under the theme of ‘Leadership and the Future of Construction’.
The event was held on Wednesday evening at the auditorium of the National Museum of Qatar. Ambassador of Australia HE Shane Flanagan was present on the occasion.
President of Qatar Chapter of Engineers Australia Asif Rahmany and the industry’s influential leaders and innovators shared their insights and the vision for the future.
In his address on the occasion, HE Shane Flanagan appreciated Qatar’s assistance in supporting Australians to leave Gaza following the October 7 attacks as well as earlier evacuating more than 400 people with links to Australia from Afghanistan in 2021.
The ambassador said Australia supports the vital mediation role that Qatar has been playing in the Israel-Hamas conflict. He said, “Australia has been calling for the release of hostages, for the violence to stop, for humanitarian assistance to flow into Gaza, and to avoid escalating conflict in the region. We support Qatar’s mediation efforts and hope to see an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.”
He said that since he arrived in Qatar about 12 months before, he has focused on strengthening commercial engagement between Australia and Qatar. “Our commercial engagement provides a solid foundation for the bilateral relationship. It is also mutually beneficial,” he explained.
He said that last year, bilateral trade between the two countries in goods and services reached over A$3.4 billion, which makes Qatar, the second largest partner for Australia in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
In May this year, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed an MoU with the Qatar Chamber to encourage activities to promote trade. “Moreover, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is working to implement the MoU for which it’s been organising regular trade delegations from Australia.”
He added that on his part, he has been working closely with the Australian business community to establish the Australia Qatar Business Association. “We are currently going through the process of having the association registered,” he informed.
The Australian envoy lauded the role of the Australian community living in Qatar – firms and individuals – as well as the “very important role being played by Australian women”.
Talking about investment, he said that Qatari investments in Australia include wind-powered renewable energy. “However, there is great potential for investments in sectors like the digital sphere, technology, medical research, applications of AI to aged care settings, and educational partnership with Australian universities.”
Earlier, Asif Rahmany, in his welcoming remarks, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to advancing the engineering profession globally and its significant presence in Qatar.
Ms. Billie Teshich, president of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), emphasized the critical role played by women in the construction industry and the ongoing efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the sector.
Mohammed Ayaz, treasurer of Engineers Australia Qatar Chapter, spoke about the pivotal role played by Engineers Australia in shaping the future of engineering and construction in the country. He highlighted the journey of Engineers Australia in Qatar, noting the significant milestones achieved and the reciprocal agreement with Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning (MMUP).
The panel discussion was moderated by Ms Billie Teshich and the panellists included Dr. Sheikha Athba Al Thani, a leading figure in sustainable construction and innovative engineering solutions; Eng. Mohamad Naser, known for his expertise in infrastructure development and project management; Ahmad Jassim Al Muzafar, a visionary in modern construction techniques and smart city initiatives; and Mrs Sindy Yong, an advocate for diversity and inclusion in engineering and construction sectors. Each panellist brought a wealth of knowledge and unique perspectives to the discussion, enriching the dialogue on leadership and the future of construction.
Ms. Rukhsana Khan was the Master of Ceremony while Ms. Heba Mandour, presented a vote of thanks to the speakers, panellists, and attendees for their participation and contributions.
