Ministry of Transport Hosts Successful 'Sustainable Transportation and Legacy for Generations' Conference and Exhibition

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According to the Ministry of Transport, H.E. Jassim Saif Ahmed Al-Sulaiti, the Minister of Transport, inaugurated the "Sustainable Transportation and Legacy for Generations" Conference and Exhibition during Day Two of the event. 

The event was attended by various esteemed dignitaries, including H.E. Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Minister of Interior and Commander of Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya); H.E. Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al-Thani, Governor of Qatar Central Bank; Dr. Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, Minister of Municipality; H.E. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Qassim Al-Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry; H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology; along with several state and transportation industry officials.

In his opening address, Minister Al-Sulaiti highlighted Qatar's significant investments in infrastructure projects and support services within the transportation sector. These investments were in line with the directives of H.H. the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and resulted in the development of an integrated, interconnected, and sustainable transportation system. This positioning placed Qatar prominently on the global transportation industry map and enabled the efficient hosting of major events.

Minister Al-Sulaiti also shared key achievements in Qatar's transition to electric buses, with e-bus operations nearing 70% by Q3 of 2023. The aim was to achieve a 100% electric bus system by 2030, aligning with Qatar's National Environment and Climate Change Strategy and the goals of QNV2030. Additionally, he announced the launch of the Autonomous Vehicles Strategy, with a five-year plan to regulate the use of autonomous vehicles in Qatar, promoting smart and environmentally conscious transit systems.

The Ministry was also working on defining standards and specifications for electric vehicles (EVs) in collaboration with relevant bodies. This included setting minimum technical specifications and safety standards for EVs and establishing a center to inspect and verify EV specifications conformity, as well as issuing the required approval certificates.

Regarding maritime transportation, Minister Al-Sulaiti highlighted the advanced infrastructure and technologies at Hamad Port, which had transformed it into a regional hub port for re-exportation and transshipment, connected to over 100 ports worldwide. He also mentioned the ongoing enhancements at Al-Ruwais Port and the third phase of its development plan, aimed at increasing capabilities and accommodating growing ship traffic.

Minister Al-Sulaiti emphasized the positive impact of development works at Doha Port on the tourism industry through large cruise ship trips. The maritime transportation sector was also expanding its overseas investments through QTerminals, extending its presence to several global ports and planning future expansion in the Netherlands.

In the field of air transportation, Minister Al-Sulaiti highlighted the successful development efforts, especially during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Over 26,500 aircraft movements were recorded at Hamad International Airport and Doha International Airport during the tournament. Additionally, key advancements were made in meteorology services, enhancing weather predictions for maritime and air navigation.

The Minister noted that Qatar had signed 175 air transportation agreements with countries worldwide, expanding the national carrier's network to over 160 destinations. The Hamad International Airport received 40 global airlines, with three more carriers set to join soon.

Minister Al-Sulaiti concluded by affirming the commitment to further develop the transportation and mobility system, supporting various industries, trade, mobility, goods transportation, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents of Qatar. This commitment aimed to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Following the speech, Minister Al-Sulaiti accompanied attending ministers and officials on a tour of the exhibition, where the latest sustainable transportation technologies and innovations were on display. Several agreements were also signed by participating entities during the event.

The first day of the conference featured three panel discussions covering topics such as electric and sustainable transportation, public transportation, and private sector engagement in transportation system development.

The event was sponsored by 13 entities, including Qatar Airways Group, Mwani Qatar, Qatar National Bank (QNB), and Ecotranzit Solutions as Strategic Sponsors. Qatar Rail and QTerminals Group were Platinum Sponsors, while Mowasalat (Karwa) and Leonardo Qatar were Gold Sponsors. Fusion Group Holding served as a Silver Sponsor, and Milaha, Al Abdulghani Motors, GBM, and Alfardan Automobiles were Bronze Sponsors.