Doha: In a recent editorial, the Peninsula newspaper emphasized Qatar’s strategic shift towards a knowledge-based and digital-first economy, positioning itself as a hub for technological innovation. This transition is marked by the establishment of the Steering Committee for Smart Government and Digital Leadership, spearheaded by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani. This initiative is part of Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy, aiming to achieve governmental excellence by promoting a digital government model based on innovation and excellence.

According to Qatar News Agency, the Peninsula highlighted that the Committee’s role is to oversee the implementation of the Digital Government strategy, ensuring coordination among ministries, government bodies, public institutions, and non-governmental organizations. This coordination aims to integrate digital initiatives across various sectors to support sustainable development, aligning with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. The Peninsula also noted Qatar’s significant progress in the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2024, climbing from the 78th to the 53rd position among 193 countries, reflecting its success in leveraging e-services for comprehensive development.

Meanwhile, Al-Sharq newspaper focused on the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, describing it as an unprecedented catastrophe. The State of Qatar consistently condemns the targeting of civilians, collective punishment, and deprivation of essential services in Gaza, warning of the humanitarian and security repercussions. HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani underscored the international community’s responsibility to address the dire situation during a meeting with HE United Nations Under-Secretary-General Sigrid Kaag.

Al-Sharq further reported Qatar’s call for the international community to overcome its shortcomings in addressing the Palestinian issue and aggression against Gaza. The State of Qatar urges international forums to take necessary actions to protect the Palestinian people, halt ongoing crimes, and ensure the fair application of international law without selectivity or duplication.