Media Center

Washington /Information Office/ 20 September 2015/ Young people have a role in reshaping societies and the road map to emerge from conflicts in the Middle East is through peace and economic progress, Qatar's envoy to the United State told a forum here. Addressing the annual meeting of Give 1 Project under the theme, 'Investing in Young Leaders of the World' HE Ambassador Mohammed Jaham Al Kuwari said, "The State of Qatar believes in the ability of young people to reshape societies." Welcoming the initiative to involve young people in the peace process and bringing stability and security in the Middle East, he said, "The Arab region is going through transformation due to civil wars and the circle of violence due increasing sectarian alignments. However, the war and violence will not last forever. Once the guns fall silent talks for peace and change will follow." The Arab world is witnessing radical changes and this calls for a new vision for the role of youth in the community. To this end the Ambassador said the way forward is Peace Economy that aims to rebuild economies of the region through investment, sustainable development and civil societies beyond the immediate need of humanitarian assistance. "Qatar's policy is to translate this vision into reality. Since the beginning of the Arab Spring, it has been directing national initiatives in the Arab world about the role of youth. This can be achieved by investing in education and human development and entrepreneurship," he said. HE the Ambassador said, "Doha's transformation into an oasis for academics has taken place due to the number of universities, scientific institutions that have become a model for educational and cultural life in the region. He highlighted Qatar Foundation initiatives like the Silatech that works to create jobs and expand economic opportunities for young people. He also mentioned the role of Qatar Foundation International in the development of modern educational systems to meet the needs of future generations. Silatech is a model for sustainable development in the Arab world and the project works to provide Arab youth opportunities as entrepreneurs through networking with money markets and Qatari companies. Sport is the third element is developing a Peace Economy, he said. "Qatar recognizes that sports play a key role in peace-making. Hosting and organizing major international sporting events in Qatar is part of this vision." In conclusion Ambassador Al Kuwari said, "A vision for the future should include sustainable human development, equal opportunities, empowerment of youth and women, and support of civil society." The international organization has around 130 members representing more than twenty countries. A non-profit organization attracts young leaders in the fields of politics, economy and civil society, politicians and heads of companies and institutions of international activists. The organization also has offices in more than 30 countries around the world.