SEOUL: The State of Qatar has participated in the 20th Korea-Middle East Cooperation Forum, hosted by the Korean capital Seoul, under the title 'Korea and the Middle East: Past, Present and Future Paths'.
The State of Qatar was represented at the forum by Minister of State for International Cooperation HE Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, and Director of the Diplomatic Institute at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Dr Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al Horr also participated.
In her speech before the forum, the Minister of State for International Cooperation pointed out that its convening comes at a critical moment characterised by increasing global challenges and rapid shifts in regional and international dynamics, noting that the Middle East region, in particular, continues to bear severe humanitarian and political crises, including Palestine, Lebanon and Sudan.
She said: "These crises transcend borders, and affect regional and global stability alike, while at the same time highlighting the urgent need to enhance dialogue, cooperation and decisive action, and to consolidate security, stability and sustainable development for the common good."
She expressed the State of Qatar's appreciation for this forum as a vital bridge - over two decades of purposeful dialogue and cooperation - between the Middle East and the Republic of Korea, with a focus on cooperation and building partnerships in the diplomatic, commercial, economic and cultural fields.
She noted that the forum has over the years become a key platform for strengthening relations, commending in this regard the initial signing of the Korea-GCC Free Trade Agreement, which she explained represents a major turning point in the journey towards deeper economic integration and shared growth between the two regions.
She added: "Together, we can support innovation, invest in sustainability, and promote peace and prosperity for our people and the world at large.”
The Minister of State for International Cooperation stressed that Qatar's foreign policy is based on solid foundations of international law and cooperation, noting the State of Qatar's commitment to the principles of mediation and dialogue in order to reach peaceful solutions, promote sustainable development, and enhance the rights of minorities.
She added: "Our wide-ranging humanitarian efforts include providing vital assistance in conflict zones and addressing long-term vulnerabilities in areas affected by complex emergencies. We believe that global challenges require collective solutions, and Qatar is always ready to contribute to this joint mission.”
At the end of her speech, she called for making this gathering an example of the power of dialogue and cooperation, noting the possibility of transforming challenges into opportunities, and building a future characterised by flexibility, inclusiveness and shared success for all.
It is worth noting that the Korea-Middle East Cooperation Forum is an annual platform that was first launched in 2003. The Republic of Korea and the Middle East countries alternate in hosting its annual session, in which prominent figures from the public and private sectors participate to enhance relations between the two sides in all fields.
The current session of the forum will discuss important topics during three main sessions: 'Cooperation between Korea and the Middle East in a Time of Uncertainty', 'Emerging Technologies: New Areas for Cooperation between Korea and the Middle East', and 'Korea and the Middle East Towards Enhancing Educational, Cultural, and Humanitarian Exchanges'.