Under a calm morning sky, the flags of the United Nations and the State of Qatar were raised together in Doha on Sunday, signaling the start of the Second World Summit for Social Development.
This ceremony officially marked the United Nations' takeover of the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) as the location where global leaders will collaborate to renew the international social pact.
The brief but meaningful event took place at the vast conference facility and included senior officials from both Qatar and the United Nations. UN security officers and Qatar’s Lekhwiya police stood alongside the two flagpoles, underscoring the importance of the occasion.
“This moment formally marks the handover of this landmark facility to the United Nations,” said Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. “The QNCC is now transformed into a space where the global community will gather to advance solutions and renew hope.”
Ahmad Hassen Al-Hamadi, Secretary General of Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, welcomed the international community and highlighted Qatar’s role as a supportive host and partner in fostering dialogue and cooperation at the highest level.
The flag-raising signaled a significant step for the UN and Qatar in hosting a pivotal summit aimed at strengthening global social development and cooperation.