HBKU Launches WTO Chair in Qatar

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has launched the Qatar World Trade Organization (WTO) Chair. The commencement of this initiative follows the selection earlier this year of the College of Law’s Dr. Georgios Dimitropoulos, Professor of Law and Associate Dean for Research, as chairholder.

The launch, held at the Minaretein Building, Education City, under the theme Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in the Digital and Industrial Economy. The event underscores its commitment to shape global debates on trade, digital transformation, and industrial policymaking. 

Welcome remarks were delivered by representatives from the WTO, envoys attached to the United Nations in Geneva and the university. Following that, His Excellency Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Sayed, Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs in his speech highlighted the numerous advantages of the WTO Chair for promoting collaborative research between policymakers and academia, consequently transforming the business ecosystem in Qatar. He also emphasized the importance of the timing of the announcement given recent developments in world trade and the importance of preserving the multilateral trading system.

In addition, Sara Abdulla Al Sulaitin, Director of the Case Management Office and the Taqadi System, Investment and Trade Court of Qatar, engaged in an insightful ‘Lunchtime Conversation’ chaired by Dr. Susan L. Karamanian, Dean, College of Law, which featured questions by Dr. Khalid Al Kuwari, Lecturer College of Law. During the discussion, they explored challenges and opportunities affecting international commerce and the role of the court in supporting a stable, attractive investment environment especially through the digital technology offered by the court.

Commenting on the Chair, Dean Karamanian, said: “We are proud to officially commence the WTO Chair activities in Qatar as these responsibilities closely align with HBKU's commitment to fostering meaningful research and education. Leveraging Qatar’s position as a global trade and logistics hub, we eagerly embrace the opportunity to play a role in strengthening academic capacity and creating opportunities for trade and influencing policies that benefit Qatar, the region and the international community.”

The event also featured key panel discussions with top government officials alongside leading experts from Qatar, the region, and international community. Speakers explored the challenges and opportunities of the emerging digital and industrial economy, the role of international trade law, as well as updates in industrial policies and subsidies regulation as it affects economic law across regions and globally.