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The ninth edition of the World Investment Forum hosted by Qatar in partnership with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development attracted more than 5,000 participants this week, including four prime ministers, over 60 ministers and more than 400 speakers who took part in more than 80 discussion sessions, according to the minister. These numbers demonstrate a clear commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive global investment environment. The high-level closing session reviewed the forum’s main outcomes while establishing priorities for enhanced international cooperation on investment to advance sustainable development.
Al-Sayed addressed delegates at what he described as a pivotal time for the global economy. “We are meeting at a crucial moment of geopolitical tensions, fragmented markets and a world shrouded in the unknown,” he said. He stressed the need for dialogue to prevail as a core principle instead of strife.
Responsible investment generates employment and development opportunities while contributing to lasting peace and its benefits, the minister stated. “This conviction is at the heart of our communication as the State of Qatar with the world, as we seek peace and stability and seek to achieve development and well-being,” Al-Sayed added. Qatar views its role in hosting the forum as part of an ongoing effort to promote open trade, constructive dialogue and sustainable investment flows.
The minister pledged that Qatar would continue working with UNCTAD and international partners to convert shared ambitions into measurable progress on the ground. This stance builds on the country’s established approach of strengthening supply chains, expanding market access and forging deeper global partnerships. Qatar attracted 373 foreign direct investment projects in 2025, a 50 percent increase from the previous year that generated more than 15,000 jobs, he reported.
Global foreign direct investment reached approximately $1.6 trillion in 2025, with more than 80 percent of flows concentrated in the 20 largest recipient economies, a pattern highlighted during forum sessions. Al-Sayed noted that trade prospers and long-term investments realise their potential only in a secure and stable environment. Such conditions remain vital for directing capital toward sustainable development objectives worldwide.
Al-Sayed closed his remarks by focusing on collaborative efforts to shape tomorrow’s economy. “The future of investments is not about the flow of capital, but about the future we build together, and Doha will always be open to you and will remain the best option for your investments and to continue your future dialogues,” he said. The UNCTAD-organised forum brought together heads of state, policymakers, chief executives and investors to examine opportunities, challenges and pathways for sustainable development.
