Flags Raised in Doha as Leaders Gather for UN Social Development Summit
On a serene Sunday morning in Doha, the flags of the United Nations and the State of Qatar were raised side by side ahead of the Second World Summit for Social Development. The event signified the official transfer of the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) to the UN, marking it as the primary venue for discussions aimed at reinforcing the global social compact.
The brief but symbolic ceremony took place at the expansive convention complex, attended by senior representatives from both the United Nations and Qatar. UN security officers and members of Qatar’s Lekhwiya police stood in formation by the two flagpoles, underscoring the sense of shared purpose and formality.
“This moment formally marks the handover of this landmark facility to the United Nations,”
said Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. He added that the QNCC had become a gathering place where the global community could collaborate to find solutions and renew optimism.
“The QNCC is now transformed into a space where the global community will gather to advance solutions and renew hope.”
Ahmad Hassen Al-Hamadi, Secretary General of Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, welcomed delegates and reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment as both host and partner in promoting high-level dialogue and cooperation.
Author’s Summary
The UN and Qatar inaugurated the QNCC in Doha, marking a shared pledge to advance global social development through renewed international collaboration.