Fostering Sustainable Partnerships: Rwanda Hosts Business Forum and Celebrates National Day at Expo 2023 Doha.
Today, Rwanda hosted the Business Forum and celebrated the National Day in the ongoing Expo 2023 Doha, showcasing the country's dedication to sustainable practices and collaborative initiatives aimed at shaping a greener future. The event welcomed prominent figures from various sectors, including government officials from Rwanda and Qatar, Rwanda and GCC business leaders from horticulture, sustainable finance, and sustainable tourism sectors, in addition to esteemed academics and entrepreneurs.
Among the notable attendees were Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri, the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources in Rwanda; His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change in Qatar; His Excellency Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiya, Minister of Municipality of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Ambassador Ibrahim Fakhroo, the Manager of the Department of Protocol; His Excellency Bader Al Dafa, the Commissioner General of Expo; Mr. Mohammed Al Khouri, the Secretary General of Expo; Mr. Claude Bizimana, the CEO of the National Agricultural Export Development Board; and the Commissioner General of the Rwanda pavilion. Their presence, alongside other esteemed officials, underscored the significance of this event in fostering collaboration and advancing sustainable development goals.
The forum served as a platform for insightful discussions and knowledge sharing through panel discussions and inspiring stories, focusing on critical aspects such as Modern Agriculture, Technology and Innovation, Environmental Awareness and Sustainability, and Conservation and Sustainable tourism and others. Moreover, it facilitated engagements between Rwanda's private sector and potential partners in Qatar and beyond, exploring avenues for strategic and commercial partnerships.
Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri, Rwanda's Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, highlighted Rwanda's steadfast dedication to sustainability during the Expo. He emphasized, "The Expo has provided us with a platform to engage with new, like-minded partners who champion the green agenda. Together, we will forge pathways that are resilient to climate change, strive for carbon neutrality, and encourage innovation in green economics."
The attendees at the Business Forum and Rwanda National Day experienced Rwandan culture through traditional dances performed by the Rwanda National Ballet, Urucyerereza who performed for their first time in Qatar. The event concluded with closing remarks from Ambassador Igor Marara, Ambassador of the Republic Rwanda to the State of Qatar, who expressed gratitude to the attendees and Expo Organizers, concluding with the poignant adage, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." Following the remarks, guests were invited to participate in a tour of the Rwanda pavilion, facilitating further exploration of collaboration and partnership opportunities.