Doha, Qatar: The second Leadership Innovation Forum 2025, organised by the Qatar Leadership Centre (QLC) under the theme "The Art of Decision Making," opened in Doha on Sunday in the presence of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani, Chairperson of the QLC Board of Directors.
In his opening remarks, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, highlighted the complexity of decision-making in diplomacy and international relations, describing it as a process that requires clear vision, flexibility, and steadfast adherence to principles.
He said that one of the main challenges facing decision-makers today is the ability to make sound choices amid uncertainty and limited information, noting that the interconnectedness of interests and actors often prevents a complete picture. "This requires decisions based on principles rather than emotions," he added.
Dr Al Khulaifi stressed that wise decision-making balances authority and responsibility, calling each decision "an ethical act before being an administrative one." He added that both institutional and personal awareness play a key role in shaping effective leadership.
He emphasised that genuine leadership is not only about managing the present but also about striving to transform it for the better. "An effective leader is one who makes incremental decisions that collectively create positive change," he said.
Discussing political leadership, HE Al Khulaifi noted that successful political decisions are measured not only by their mechanisms but also by their ability to build trust, foster understanding, and promote stability. He underlined that decision-making is a central tool in peacebuilding and conflict management.
Dr Al Khulaifi said Qatar's foreign policy is grounded in firm principles and flexible positions, placing humanity and the public interest at its core. He added that Qatar's role in regional and international mediation reflects its humanitarian commitment and strategic vision aimed at achieving peace as a lasting and evolving choice.
He concluded by underscoring the importance of cultivating conscious and courageous leaders capable of making responsible decisions, noting that "an informed decision is the foundation of sustainable development and institutional success."
This year's forum explored leadership through the lens of decision-making, featuring keynote and interactive sessions on topics such as leadership through sportsmanship and unity, medical leadership between prevention and precision, leadership at home - building future leaders, and lead by initiative - from idea to implementation.
The event concluded with a session focusing on sustaining and evolving institutional and family legacies through conscious leadership.
The Leadership Innovation Forum continues to serve as a national platform that bridges thought and practice, empowering leaders to strengthen their skills in leadership, innovation, and decision-making, thereby reinforcing Qatar’s leadership ecosystem and its influence both locally and globally.
