Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide Sir Mark Thompson (fourth right), Chairman of Media City Qatar H E Sheikh Dr. Abdulla bin Ali Al-Thani (fourth left) and other officials during the launch of CNN’s flagship Global Perspectives series in Doha yesterday.
DOHA: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani has reaffirmed Qatar’s unwavering commitment to dialogue and mutual understanding as essential tools for addressing global challenges and building common ground among nations.
Speaking at the opening of CNN’s flagship Global Perspectives series, which made its Middle East and Gulf debut in Doha yesterday, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed the importance of exchanging diverse perspectives at a time of profound global transformation.
Organised by the CNN in partnership with Media City Qatar, the event brought together prominent international leaders, policymakers and experts to examine developments shaping politics, the global economy, technology, investment, culture, sports and media.
The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that gatherings of this nature provide valuable opportunities for individuals from different backgrounds, industries and experiences to exchange ideas on issues increasingly affecting societies worldwide.
“At a time of profound global change, understanding different perspectives has never been more important. The challenges we face are increasingly interconnected, and no single perspective can offer all the answers,” he said.
He emphasised that Qatar has consistently championed dialogue, even amid disagreements, as a means of promoting understanding and identifying shared interests. “From business and technology to media and culture, today’s programme offers a broad range of perspectives, and I hope that the discussions will challenge assumptions, inspire new ideas, and encourage meaningful exchange,” he added.
Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani attending the opening of CNN’s Global Perspectives series yesterday.
Chairman of Media City Qatar H E Sheikh Dr. Abdulla bin Ali Al-Thani highlighted Doha’s growing position as an international meeting point for ideas, expertise and meaningful dialogue.
He said Media City Qatar was developing an integrated media ecosystem connecting international organisations with the region while amplifying regional voices globally and strengthening international understanding of the Middle East. According to him, Media City Qatar’s ecosystem currently comprises more than 550 licensed companies, approximately 70 percent of which originate from outside the region.
He added that the organisation has supported more than 30 local creative projects spanning documentaries, drama productions, films, gaming and podcasts. Two original Arabic drama series have recently completed production, while three film companies licensed by Media City Qatar have been selected to participate in an international film festival this year.
Highlighting the growing partnership with CNN, Sheikh Dr. Abdulla pointed to the successful launch of the CNN Academy’s first programme in Qatar last week. The initiative brought together 35 university students for practical training in storytelling, mobile journalism, news verification and field reporting under the guidance of experienced journalists.
Meanwhile, Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide Sir Mark Thompson commended Qatar’s steadfast commitment to diplomacy and dialogue during challenging global circumstances. He praised the country’s efforts not only in resolving conflicts but also in establishing foundations for greater international cooperation and prosperity.
Thompson noted that CNN’s presence in the Middle East for nearly 25 years, alongside its operations in Qatar, has strengthened the network’s ability to deliver regional perspectives to global audiences.
He also highlighted Qatar’s resilience, adaptability and growing opportunities for international partnerships. Held under the theme “The Invisible World,” the event featured discussions moderated by leading CNN anchors and correspondents, examining emerging forces transforming artificial intelligence, energy, the global economy, sports and culture.
