State Secretary Gabrič at this year's Doha Forum

DState Secretary Gabrič at this year's Doha Forum | Author MZEZ

State Secretary Gabrič participated in a panel on legal mechanisms for the protection of mediators in armed conflicts, which highlighted the existing international legal framework governing mediation in armed conflicts, identified its gaps and underlined the evolving practices. The discussion also focused on developing possible legal and political mechanisms to strengthen mediation.

In her address, State Secretary Gabrič thanked Qatar for its active role as a mediator in peace processes, advocating inclusive mediation that involves all segments of society, especially women and young people. She emphasised the need for the full, equal and effective participation of women in conflict prevention and resolution processes, as well as in efforts to achieve lasting peace. She also drew attention to Slovenia's valuable experience in protecting journalists and humanitarian workers, gained during its term on the UN Security Council.

State Secretary Gabrič participated in a panel hosted by Qatar's Minister of State for International Cooperation, Al Misnad. The panel was dedicated to the respect of international humanitarian law in armed conflicts, which remains a fundamental moral imperative for humanity. She emphasised that Slovenia prioritises international humanitarian law in its activities within the Security Council, particularly with regard to protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, and ensuring accountability. She also drew attention to the Slovenian initiative, prepared jointly with Switzerland and the Geneva Water Hub, which highlights the importance of protecting water resources in armed conflicts.

On the sidelines of the Forum, the State Secretary held several bilateral meetings. She discussed strengthening cooperation in the humanitarian field with Minister Al Misnad through the Slovenia-based organisation ITF, with which the Qatar Fund for Development recently signed a contract to purchase equipment for a children's hospital in Bethlehem. They also discussed opportunities for cooperation in psychophysical assistance programmes for victims of the war in Ukraine.

State Secretary Gabrič also met with a representative of Qatar Foundation and the president of the QatarDebate Center. They discussed ways to further strengthen the cooperation between debate clubs in Slovenia and Qatar.

During her visit, the State Secretary gave an interview to Al Jazeera, speaking about Slovenia's support for Palestine, efforts to transform the current truce into lasting peace, and our country's support for international endeavours to end the war in Ukraine.