Doha: The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has highlighted the State of Qatar’s influential role in fostering peace across the Middle East and globally, describing Qatar as a “peacemaker.”
According to Qatar News Agency, during a press conference at the Second World Summit for Social Development 2025 in Doha, Guterres acknowledged Qatar’s unwavering support in various peace initiatives. He cited Qatar’s involvement in the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and mediation efforts between the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s government and the M23 movement as examples of its commitment to peace. Guterres emphasized the necessity of maintaining these agreements to establish lasting political solutions.
Additionally, Guterres praised Qatar for its substantial contributions to the United Nations, particularly in humanitarian aid and educational advocacy, such as efforts to ensure Afghan girls have access to schooling. He pointed out that Qatar hosts the Doha multilateral process, which aids the international community’s engagement with Afghanistan.
He remarked that Qatar hosting the Second World Summit for Social Development 2025 exemplifies its decisive role on the global stage, highlighting the summit’s focus on “people, dignity, and social justice” as central to sustainable development. He described the “Doha Political Declaration,” adopted at the summit, as a firm commitment by the global community to accelerate progress.
Addressing regional conflicts, Guterres called for immediate peace efforts in Sudan and Gaza. He expressed alarm over Sudan’s escalating humanitarian crisis, particularly in El Fasher, where civilians face severe hardships due to malnutrition, disease, and violence. He urged for a ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access, and a halt to the influx of weapons and fighters, encouraging the Sudanese factions to engage with his envoy for a negotiated resolution.
On Gaza, Guterres expressed concern over ceasefire violations and stressed the importance of a political path to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for a two-state solution and the Palestinian right to self-determination.
He also urged governments to address poverty and inequality through investments in essential services and job creation. Emphasizing the role of multilateral development banks, private finance, and debt relief, he called for inclusive growth strategies.
Guterres, responding to reporters, highlighted the need for unified international efforts to address the Sudan crisis and hold violators accountable. Concerning Gaza, he reiterated the importance of a ceasefire within a broader political framework, advocating for a two-state solution and the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.
The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of revitalizing Gaza’s education system, previously managed by UNRWA, as a key element of reconstruction efforts, with plans for a related conference in Cairo.
In closing, Guterres expressed optimism that Qatar will continue its pivotal role in regional and global peace initiatives and remain a key partner in rebuilding Gaza and promoting global cooperation for peace and development.