Qatar participates in 2nd Int'l conference on returning Ukrainian children, detained civilians, and prisoners of war

The State of Qatar actively took part in the Second International Conference on Returning Ukrainian Children, Detained Civilians, and Prisoners of War, which took place in Toronto, Canada between September 28 and 29.

Representing Qatar at the event was HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad. In her statement to the conference, Dr. Al Misnad reasserted Qatar's dedication to finding a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine crisis through diplomacy and dialogue.

The minister emphasized that safeguarding civilians, particularly children, is a shared responsibility for the global community. She stressed that the well-being, dignity, and future of children must remain central to all international endeavors related to the conflict.

Since 2023, Qatar has been involved in humanitarian efforts to assist in the return of children separated from their families due to the war. These initiatives, conducted alongside the International Committee of the Red Cross, resulted in the reunification of over 14 families and the safe return of 87 Ukrainian children.

Following successful reunifications, Qatar provided shelter and rehabilitation programs to support the physical and mental recovery of these families. In 2023, the country allocated $100 million to aid Ukraine's humanitarian response, focusing on health, education, and basic services, and contributed $20 million to the Ukrainian grain export initiative.

Qatar also backed child protection and education projects, including a $3.5 million program to create and equip safe shelters, schools, and kindergartens for Ukrainian children. The minister highlighted that Qatar's support encompasses scholarships for Ukrainian students to study in Qatar and funding for vital health facilities, such as childcare centers, in Ukraine.

Dr. Al Misnad expressed Qatar's admiration for Canada's stance in favor of peace and child protection, noting that both nations share the common goal of achieving a peaceful, just, and enduring solution to the crisis for the benefit of all humanity.