Speaking at the opening session of the international conference on threats facing freedom of expression, Dr Ali bin Smaikh al-Marri said that it was unacceptable to impose mass sanctions against civilians or journalists for any political differences. Officials from over 200 international rights groups, press syndicates, think-tanks and universities are taking part in the two-day conference at Ritz Carlton Doha.

Driven by a most relevant theme of ‘Boundaries, Identity and The Public Realm’ in these increasingly fraught times, The New York Times Art for Tomorrow Conference is set to present another fascinating round of discussions, insights, analysis, and contemplations, advanced by great minds, from March 10 to 13 at the W Doha Hotel & Residences. [...] The event will explore the tangible contributions that art and cultural development can make to economic growth and nation-building initiatives. 

Good food is the way to winning people’s heart. And Italians are masters at winning hearts with their globally popular cuisine so much so that the authorities in Italy believe food can also be a powerful tool for diplomacy. Organising an Italian Cuisine Week in around 120 countries including Doha simultaneously, the Italian authorities aim to lighten up people’s mood with good food.

The Third Meeting of the Consultative Group for the Istanbul Co-operation Initiative (ICI) concluded yesterday in Doha after coming up with a number of important proposals and ideas. [...] highlighted the importance of co-ordination on a united strategy for public diplomacy by organising regular meetings on important matters that require united stances and reactions.

While a huge influx of immigration has brought much cultural diversity to the country, Qatar has also made concerted efforts to preserve its own heritage through cultural projects and the all encompassing Vision 2030

The prominent network has been seen as a foreign policy tool during Qatar’s attempts to play an influential role in the region. But many say Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has pursued a quieter approach to diplomacy since becoming Emir.

The announcement of a Turkish military base in Qatar was accompanied by the powerful symbolism of a  friendly match played by the national soccer teams of  Turkey and Qatar in Doha. The match, which the Turks won 2-1, provided a sports diplomacy momentum to the ongoing political and security rapprochement between the two countries, while at the same time confirming Turkey’s support for Qatar[.]