rki.news
By Haroon Rashid Qureshi
DOHA: Msheireb Museums, in partnership with the Australian Embassy in Qatar, hosted the MIKTA Climate Dialogue 2026 under the theme “Accelerating Climate Action Through International Partnerships,” bringing together diplomats, climate experts, business leaders and sustainability advocates to discuss collaborative approaches to climate action ahead of COP31.
The event featured two panel discussions. The first, “Climate Diplomacy and International Cooperation,” brought together Australian Ambassador Shane Flanagan, Mexican Ambassador Guillermo Ordorica, Indonesian Ambassador Syahda Guruh Langkah Samudera, Turkish Ambassador Dr. Mehmet Mustafa Göksu, and Republic of Korea Deputy Chief of Mission Pil Ho Kang to discuss the role of diplomacy, multilateral engagement and international partnerships in advancing climate action.
The second panel, “Commercial Innovation and Practical Climate Solutions,” featured Fatma AlKhater, Dr. Marwa Al-Ansary, Michael Wood and Katrina Lyon, who explored how business, technology and innovation can contribute to sustainable development and practical climate solutions through collaboration and investment.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Australian Ambassador Shane Flanagan
In an exclusive interview with Haroon Rashid Qureshi, Editor-in-Chief of Rahbar Kisan International (RKI.News), on the sidelines of the MIKTA Climate Dialogue 2026, Australian Ambassador to Qatar Shane Flanagan highlighted the significance of MIKTA and underscored the urgent need for international cooperation on climate action.
Ambassador Flanagan explained that MIKTA, established in 2013, is an informal partnership comprising Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Türkiye and Australia. Despite their diversity, the member countries share a strong commitment to an international system based on international law, rules, norms and multilateral cooperation.
He noted that Australia is honoured to serve as Chair of MIKTA in 2026 and said the dialogue in Qatar reflected the group’s shared commitment to addressing global climate challenges through cooperation and engagement. He added that the chairmanship rotates annually among member states.
Discussing the impacts of climate change, Ambassador Flanagan said Australia is increasingly experiencing severe weather events, including catastrophic bushfires and worsening droughts. He stressed that climate change is already affecting communities and economies worldwide and requires coordinated international action.
The Ambassador also expressed concern for Pacific Island nations, many of which remain highly vulnerable to climate-related threats. He emphasized that supporting vulnerable countries and strengthening climate resilience must remain a global priority.
Highlighting Qatar’s role in promoting dialogue and innovation, Ambassador Flanagan praised a presentation by the University of Doha for Science and Technology showcasing pioneering engineering initiatives in waste reduction and solar-powered vehicle technology. He noted that the university’s solar vehicle team is preparing to participate in a major race in Australia next year, covering approximately 3,000 kilometres.
Ambassador Flanagan also commended Msheireb Museums for its leadership in environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives and sustainability awareness, describing it as an ideal partner for the dialogue.
Expressing satisfaction with the outcome of the event, he said the discussions were highly productive and would help build momentum towards COP31. He added that Australia is working closely with Türkiye and other partners to achieve positive outcomes at the global climate conference.
The MIKTA Climate Dialogue 2026 underscored the importance of international partnerships, innovation and knowledge-sharing in advancing climate action and fostering sustainable solutions to global environmental challenges.