Ashraf AboArafe
THE General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, in collaboration with the Arab Council for Social Responsibility, organized the International Forum for Arab Women in Diplomacy: Biographies and Journeys. Held in commemoration of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, the prestigious event gathered an elite assembly of regional and international diplomatic leaders, decision-makers, and representatives from media and development organizations.
A Beacon of Honor for the State of Qatar
The State of Qatar received significant recognition during the forum, celebrating the remarkable contributions of its leading women:
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H.E. Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al-Khater (Minister of Education and Higher Education): Awarded the 2026 Arab Women’s Shield for Social Responsibility in recognition of her visionary leadership at national, regional, and international levels, her unwavering support for education and community development, and her status as an inspiring role model for pioneering Arab women.
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H.E. Dr. Hamda bint Hassan Al-Sulaiti (Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council): Honored with the Arab Women’s Award for Social Responsibility, celebrating her outstanding contributions to parliamentary and community work and her dedication to promoting social responsibility.
Note: Both prestigious awards were accepted on their behalf by Mr. Khaled Abdullah Al-Ibrahim, Counselor at the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Cairo and the Permanent Mission of Qatar to the League of Arab States.
Celebrating Diplomatic Excellence
The forum also paid tribute to Ms. Maryam Ahmed Al-Shaibi, Minister Plenipotentiary and Deputy Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Cairo, as well as Deputy Permanent Representative to the League of Arab States. She was honored for her distinguished efforts in advancing diplomatic work, strengthening joint Arab cooperation, embedding values of social responsibility, and empowering women in the diplomatic arena.
A Vision of Empowerment and Peace
Expressing her pride in this recognition, Ms. Maryam Ahmed Al-Shaibi emphasized that this honor celebrates Qatari women and reflects the state’s progressive approach to female empowerment and decision-making.
She noted that these achievements flourish under the umbrella of Qatar National Vision 2030, driven by the wise directives of H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, alongside the transformative efforts of H.H. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development.
In her closing remarks, Al-Shaibi added that this accolade serves as a powerful catalyst to continue serving communities and amplifying the role of Arab women in peacebuilding and sustainable development, dedicating the honor to Arab women globally and Qatari women especially.
