Excellency, Dr. Ahmad Hassen Al-Hamadi, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar,
Dear Colleagues and friends,
I am deeply honoured to be with you today, as Secretary-General of the Second World Summit for Social Development, for this symbolic flag-raising ceremony.
This is the moment formally marking the handover of this landmark facility to the United Nations. The Qatar National Convention Centre is now transformed into a space where the global community will gather to advance solutions and renew hope, inspired by the Doha Political Declaration.
I extend my profound gratitude to the Government and people of the State of Qatar, for their warm welcome and generosity.
Allow me to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of the team from the Permanent Committee for Organizing Conferences of the Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
I also extend my sincere thanks to the Inter-Departmental Task Force of the United Nations Secretariat, for the strong spirit of collegiality and collaboration throughout the preparation process.
Together, we have accomplished, in less than ten months, a process usually undertaken in two years. This is a significant achievement, especially under the current international landscape.
I am equally thankful to many dedicated local colleagues who will work tirelessly to ensure the logical success of the next four days —from transport and catering to safety and security.
Excellencies,
Distinguished Participants,
Dear Friends,
Over the coming days, our focus will remain squarely on what is important for the global social agenda, cooperation and partnership.
We will learn about innovative and adaptable solutions to social development challenges that can be replicated in different contexts across countries. We will hear about new commitments and partnership opportunities to collaborate across sectors, organizations and regions.
Crucially, civil society, NGOs, the private sector, federations of employers, trade unions, academia and research institutes from across the globe are gathered here as a driving force for social development—to build an inclusive, equitable and sustainable world. Their meaningful engagement ensures that this Summit truly places people at the centre of development.
Together, let us deliver the dignity and opportunity, the vision and actions the world needs in coming years
Thank you.