Q Life Magazine - Issue 12 Pathway to Peace | Page 27

Pathway to Peace
HE Sheikha Alya bint Ahmed Al Thani
In February 2020 , just weeks before New York City and much of the world went into lockdown , HE Sheikha Alya began six months of negotiations , culminating in the adoption by all heads of state and governments of the " Declaration on the Commemoration of the Seventy-Fifth Anniversary of the UN ", the UN75 Declaration , as it became known .
HE Sheikha Alya recalls : “ I am extremely proud that the UN75 Declaration presents a vision for a more just , sustainable , and peaceful world . It is a manifesto for multilateralism as the only way to handle today ' s crises and build a better future . It focuses on everyone in the world , not least youths , older people , and future generations ”.
To facilitate such successful diplomacy , Qatar has dedicated many years to establishing strong and trusted global partnerships , contributing to a wide range of UN-led programmes , including those that support the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ). HE Sheikha Alya does not shy away from Qatar ’ s impact : “ Our contributions have supported and sustained vital relief efforts , reconstruction projects , and initiatives addressing urgent humanitarian needs ”.
A standout pillar of this international collaboration and support has been in education . Explaining that Qatar has now supported education projects worth $ 1 billion worldwide , HE Sheikha Alya describes how Qatar has become a leading advocate for quality and inclusive education in conflict zones and amid humanitarian emergencies .
“ We recognise that without education , sustainable development and peace are unattainable . Access to quality education is a fundamental right and an essential driver of social development and inclusivity ”.
Qatar is now a top donor , we are involved across all pillars of the UN , and I can say our strategic partnership is growing stronger by the year , on a wide range of issues .
HE Sheikha Alya bint Ahmed Al Thani Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the UN
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