Foreword |
Foreword
It is my great pleasure to introduce the third edition of the Q
Magazine, ‘Qatar Through The Years’, showcasing the country’s
rapid and remarkable development since gaining independence
in 1971.
This issue presents Qatar’s story, as told by the people and
organisations who made it happen.
We start in the 1970s, when pioneering entities such as Qatar
National Bank and Qatar University laid the foundations for the
| His Excellency Sheikh Saif bin Ahmed
Al Thani
modern State of Qatar. Then, we fast-forward to 1995 and the
launch of Qatar Foundation, the catalyst for Qatar’s propulsion onto
the global stage.
Through the 2000s, you will discover how Qatar kick-started its transformation into a diverse international
hub for sports, art, and culture, with organisations such as Qatar Tourism Authority and Qatar Museums
leading the way.
Finally, we take a step back and look at Qatar’s bold vision for the future. At the time of writing, several of
Qatar’s neighbours continue to impose an illegal blockade on the country in an attempt to hold back the
tide of progress and reform. But we will never give up our sovereignty. Qatar will continue to unwaveringly
implement its ambitious development programme, underpinned by the 2030 National Vision (QNV 2030).
QNV 2030 sets a clear roadmap for Qatar’s future. Under this framework, Qatar is aiming to become an
advanced society capable of sustaining its development and providing a high standard of living for its people
by 2030. This will be achieved through intensive work across four pillars of human, social, economic, and
environmental development.
Covering just under half a century, ‘Qatar Through The Years’ highlights astonishing stories of ambition,
drive, and achievement. The Government of the State of Qatar is incredibly proud of this progress, but is
determined to work even harder to create a society which is truly inclusive and beneficial to all citizens
and residents.
I for one am incredibly excited to see what the next chapter brings.
Saif bin Ahmed Al Thani
Director of the Government Communications Office of the State of Qatar
7