Sheikh Khalifa: Arab Private Sector Is Key Driver of Investment, Jobs

Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani highlighted the role of the private sector, describing it as a main partner in development and a key driver of investment and job creation.

He made the statement in light of the chamber’s participation in the ‘52nd session of the Arab Labour Conference’, which will run until September 20 in Cairo.

According to Sheikh Khalifa, the Arab private sector requires stronger public-private partnerships, as well as supportive legislation and policies that foster business growth and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs across the Arab region.

Organised by the Arab Labour Organisation, the annual conference convenes ministers of labour, alongside representatives of the tripartite production pillars; governments, employers, and workers, as well as regional and international bodies.

Sheikh Khalifa is leading the chamber’s delegation, which includes Nasser Ahmed al-Meer, advisor to the Chairman for Labour Affairs; Abdulaziz al-Kuwari, director of Legal Affairs; Hamad Ali Muaiql al-Marri, director of Committees and Business Councils Department; and Al Anoud Zayed al-Muhannadi, director of Member Affairs.

The agenda focuses on assessing the socio-economic impacts of climate change on the working environment and exploring the role of startups within digital transformation. Discussions will highlight how entrepreneurial ventures can drive economic diversification, lower unemployment, and foster sustainable job creation across the Arab region.

Sheikh Khalifa emphasised that the conference serves as a pivotal platform for dialogue and collaboration among the Arab world's production pillars, helping unify regional efforts to address pressing labour market challenges.

He noted that the current phase demands stronger joint Arab action and the exchange of best practices to build more resilient, competitive labour markets capable of adapting to rapid global shifts.