Taliban Representative’s Attendance Sparks Controversy at Doha Forum as Saad Mohseni Honored
Saad Mohseni, the chairman of Moby Group, received a special award at the 23rd Doha Forum, which began on Saturday, December 5, in Qatar’s capital. The award, presented by the Emir of Qatar, recognized his “impactful role in education under difficult circumstances.”
However, the participation of a representative from the Taliban administration drew backlash. Sources confirmed that the representative is expected to speak in one of the forum’s upcoming panels—a move observers interpret as an indirect attempt to legitimize the Taliban on the international stage. The Taliban were invited despite lacking an inclusive or legitimate governing structure domestically or internationally, and having suppressed avenues for political participation.
Held under the theme “Building Shared Futures,” the forum has brought together leaders, diplomats, and economic figures from over 150 countries. On the first day, discussions focused on global crises such as the war in Ukraine and the situation in Gaza, with participants calling for concrete international action to address these challenges.
Microsoft founder Bill Gates, in his address, acknowledged the limited progress in global health but expressed optimism. He noted that innovations, particularly in artificial intelligence, have increased the potential for developing new vaccines and combating deadly diseases like malaria and AIDS.
In a panel titled “Mediation in an Age of Fragmentation,” speakers emphasized Doha’s pivotal role in resolving regional conflicts. Officials, including the EU foreign policy chief, praised Qatar’s diplomatic efforts in Afghanistan, Gaza, and Sudan. Qatar’s Prime Minister stated that his country, as a small state, relies on diplomacy and investment—not military power—to promote regional stability.
He added that Qatar aims to reinforce stability through international cooperation. Spain’s Foreign Minister called for an end to violence against civilians in Gaza and warned that remaining silent in the face of such atrocities is unacceptable.
Regarding the crisis in Ukraine, country representatives underscored the need to uphold the UN Charter and reject the use of war as a tool of international policy. Turkey’s Foreign Minister cautioned that nations cannot remain indifferent to nearby crises and must uphold their humanitarian responsibilities.
Despite global efforts to pursue peace and justice, the invitation extended to a Taliban representative at this forum has been seen as contradicting the event’s stated principles. It has raised concerns over legitimizing a repressive regime known for violating the fundamental rights of Afghan citizens.
