Doha: The Doha Forum kicked off here on Saturday, with the delegates holding extensive discussions on global pressing challenges including world trade, technological development, and the transformative rise of artificial intelligence.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the two-day conference, organised with the aim of bringing together world leaders, policymakers, and global experts for a dynamic and solution-oriented dialogue, is believed to establish the platform as a timely centre for multilateral engagement against the backdrop of increasing geopolitical tensions and humanitarian needs.
The organisers have stated that the main topics included in the agenda include the Gaza crisis, global health financing, and the responsibility of relevant nations to raise funds for essential services. Participants are expected to engage in intensive discussions at the meeting about the need to reconsider global trade routes amid changing national policies.
In a session held on Saturday, in-depth discussions were held on the direct and indirect impacts of AI and the US-China relationship. Although the US-China tariff dispute has affected trade and supply chains worldwide, it was expressed with satisfaction that recent agreements are reshaping global economic activity.
Dr Omar Khleif Al Gharaibeh, Associate Dean for Quality at the Business School of Al al-Bayt University in Jordan, told journalists in a forward-looking analysis about the forum’s agenda and its impact, “Amid global geopolitical turbulence, sluggish economic growth, and fluctuations among economically powerful nations, the ongoing International Doha Forum will prove to be a milestone in favour of balancing and strengthening the world economy, with a historic moment.”
He stated that ‘reimagining the future of business’ is no longer merely theoretical; it is a strategic necessity to recalibrate the global economic structure for flexibility and adaptability. Al Gharaibeh described the emerging paradigm as flexible globalization, a departure from linear models, designed to navigate escalating risks.
Al Gharaibeh explained that flexible globalization hinges on diversifying supply chains, reducing overreliance on limited production hubs, and selectively reshoring critical industries. It also calls for a regulatory overhaul that balances market openness with economic security. However, these ambitions are challenged by intensifying tech wars and strategic rivalries, which hinder consensus on trade rules in sensitive sectors.
Another debate held on Saturday in collaboration of the major Think Tank and global organisations discussed the responsibility of regional and global actors in international economic crisis, conflict resolution, and sustainable peace building. Discussion was also held about relations between Gulf countries and European Union in the session co-organised by International Policy Research Centre, Konrad Adenauer Foundation and Gulf Research Centre. It would assess changing geopolitical dynamics and opportunities for renewed cooperation.
The Forum with partnership of the Gates Foundation would address the instability of global health financing, it is said. Discussion was held about new ways to strengthen primary health service systems when declining international assistance could put the achieved progress at risk.
In the inaugural ceremony, Prime Minister of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said, “The role of Qatar in the global forum is focused to maintaining dialogue and mediation. We will help to resolve conflict and end human sufferings without favouring any side.” He opined that Qatar played an active role at the initiative for the establishment of peace in Gaza and Ukraine.
In Doha Forum, world-renowned industrialist and founder of Microsoft Bill Gates pointed out the need of financial support and use of technology to strengthen global health system. “We should take collective initiative to tackle health challenges in future and attention should be paid in system-wise reform,” he viewed.
The Doha Forum has positioned Qatar not just as a host but as an active contributor to shaping the future of the globe. Various sessions at the forum have focused on critical topics such as mediation, the Gaza crisis, funding for global health, strategies for artificial intelligence, and relations among major powers.
In another noteworthy discussion programme titled ‘The Power of Media and the Search for Truth,’ held in partnership with international media, there was significant involvement from senior journalists from various nations worldwide. The panel discussion, led by Sky News journalist Yalda Hakim, included thorough discussions on urgent global matters and potential solutions.
The programme specifically pointed out the role of AI technologies in the rapid spread of unverified information or the creation of false or misleading content. At the conclusion of the event, the panelists called for a cautious approach to media that disseminates deceptive or fabricated news without credible sources. They advocated for a focus on creative and meaningful journalism that contributes to societal development and progress through effective communication, while also urging the responsible use of AI to foster more refined and responsible journalism.