Doha, October 14, 2026 : HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani inaugurated the 55th annual session of the Shura Council on Tuesday, opening the second ordinary session of the Council’s second legislative term at its headquarters in Tamim bin Hamad Hall.
The inauguration was attended by members of the ruling family, HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, ministers, heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Qatar and other dignitaries.
In his opening address, HH the Amir highlighted Qatar’s response to recent regional challenges, commending the solidarity demonstrated by citizens and residents and the efforts of the country’s armed forces, security agencies and state institutions.
He reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty, maintaining essential services and economic activity, supporting efforts to secure a ceasefire and restore freedom of navigation, and pursuing diplomatic solutions to conflicts.
HH the Amir also addressed the impact of regional developments on Qatar’s economy, noting that disruptions to energy exports had affected public revenues. He stressed the importance of fiscal discipline, efficient public spending and accelerating economic diversification, while maintaining essential services and development priorities.
He highlighted investment opportunities worth approximately QR221 billion over the next five years, spanning infrastructure projects, public-private partnerships and private-sector investment in real estate and hospitality. He called on the Shura Council to support legislation that strengthens the private sector and improves Qatar’s investment environment.
On energy, the Amir said expansion work on the North Field project was progressing according to plan, while QatarEnergy continued to develop international partnerships and investments. He also highlighted efforts to strengthen food and water security, support local agricultural production and advance digital transformation.
Addressing education and public administration, HH the Amir underscored the importance of developing human capital, equipping young people with skills relevant to the labour market, strengthening Arabic and national identity, and improving accountability and performance across government institutions.
On regional affairs, he condemned the Iranian attack on Qatar as a violation of the country’s sovereignty and international law, while reaffirming that Qatar’s commitment to dialogue does not diminish its right to defend itself. He also called for greater coordination among Gulf Cooperation Council states to protect regional security, maritime navigation, energy facilities and critical infrastructure.
HH the Amir reiterated Qatar’s support for the Palestinian cause, calling for accountability over events in Gaza and expressing concern over developments in the West Bank and violations affecting Al-Aqsa Mosque. He also stressed the need for comprehensive political solutions to crises in Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia that preserve territorial unity and promote security and stability.
Source: QNA
