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Ailyn Agonia
DOHA
“We need more women peacemakers in the world and at the United Nations participating in the resolution of conflicts and in mediation efforts”, said Spanish Ambassador to Qatar HE Belen Alfaro.
Speaking to Qatar Tribune on the occasion of International Women’s Day, the envoy stressed that women can add an important value and different perspectives in any situation. She said women’s attitudes and attributes are very valuable for negotiation and for reaching deals, especially in the areas of conflict prevention, conflict resolution, mediation and peacemaking.
“The international community has recognised that women’s participation is vital to achieving and sustaining peace. In 2000, the United Nations Security Council passed the historic resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, which calls for women to participate in peace building exercise. Women’s participation can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the causes of and alternate solutions to conflicts, and bolster actions addressing varying needs and sustaining peace over time,” said Alfaro.
Commenting on how women can be more active players in the society, the Spanish official underlined the importance of networking with other women. Similarly, she said that challenges of the 21st century can only be faced with a sustained participation and contribution of women.
On the growing presence of Qatari women in various industries, Alfaro highlighted the important contribution of women in Qatar’s efforts to achieve its national vision.
She added, “In 2017 academic year, 64 percent of the Qatari graduates were ladies while they were a majority among the Excellence in Education awardees recently. Official reports indicate that the representation of Qatari women in decision-making positions is currently 30 percent. There is a prominent role of women in all sectors contributing to the development of Qatar. Women play an important role in helping achieve the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 and they are a key partner in economic development. This is the result of the important policies that have been implemented in Qatar to promote quality education and integrated health care system for women.
“Qatar Foundation has also played an impressive role in terms of women’s education, empowerment and leadership. I would like to praise the announcement recently made by the Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al Thani that 50 percent of all participants at QF’s local and international events will be females effective from 2020,” the envoy added.
Ambassador Alfaro has been the head of Spain’s diplomatic mission in Qatar since November, 2018. Her impressive career history includes serving as Ambassador at large for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and for Intercultural Dialogue, Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Spain from 2011 to 2018. She was also the minister counsellor of the Mission of Spain to the UN in New York from 2006 to 2011.
The envoy’s personal interests include arts, culture and museums. She is also fond of golf and horse riding.
“The celebration of International Women’s day in Spain is similar that of Qatar with many public activities and conferences. It is important to celebrate this day because women represent more than half of the world’s population and have a tremendous influence in many spheres of life. Women’s education and empowerment is the best path for stable and fully successful societies,” the official said.
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24/03/2019
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