GSDP advances environment agenda with Qatar's Second Human Development Report

GSDP advances environment agenda with Qatar's Second Human Development Report

Second National Human Development Report addresses key environmental challenges facing Qatar Qatar leadership spearheads efforts to advance sustainable development in Qatar Report's conclusions to be incorporated into Qatar's National Development Strategy (NDS) Report marks new phase in environmental vision Doha, 7 July, 2009: In line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030), the General Secretariat for Development Planning (GSDP) will launch Qatar's Second Human Development Report (HDR), Advancing Sustainable Development, on July 8 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Doha.

The 2009 HDR focuses on the challenges of sustainable development in Qatar, including the interactions between water security, marine environment and climate change, and their implications for human development in Qatar.

Qatar is developing at an unprecedented speed. Its rapid spatial development, natural resource use and exceptionally high population growth are posing major environmental challenges. In order to ensure that future generations of Qataris can sustain the opportunities enjoyed by current generations, economic development and protection of the environment must be balanced.

Hosted by H.E. Dr. Ibrahim Ibrahim, GSDP's Secretary-General, the event brings together representatives from ministries, government agencies, the private sector and civil society to discuss the recommendations of the HDR and formulate action plans in support of the QNV 2030 environmental development outcomes. A symbolic launch moment, led by H.E. Dr. Ibrahim Ibrahim, Mr. Rashid Ahmed Al-Kuwari representing H.E. Abdullah bin Mubarak bin Aboud Al Meadadi, Minister of Environment, and Dr. Khaled Alloush, Regional Representative, UNDP Abu Dhabi, will be held to mark the development of Qatar's vision for sustainable development.

The Secretary-General reiterated the importance of ensuring a sustainable development path in advancing towards the Qatar National Vision 2030, especially in tackling the challenges of water security, climate change and threats to the marine environment. Having a coordinated response to this is essential to ensure that Qatar's unique environment is both preserved and protected. Qatar's Second HDR is thus an important milestone in the achievement of the Vision.

The 2009 report was prepared in partnership with relevant ministries and government agencies, the private sector, civil society and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Abu Dhabi Office. The recommendations in the Report will provide a framework for further reflection and incorporation into Qatar's National Development Strategy 2010-2015.

The Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) foresees Qatar as an advanced, knowledge-based and diversified economy by 2030. In advancing towards this Vision, Qatar is committed to maintaining a balance between development needs and the protection of the environment. The country's huge economic advances provide a solid foundation from which to launch its long-term vision and to achieve sustainable development.

(C) 2009 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)

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