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 The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Conference took place on 24th February 2009 at Sheraton Hotel, Doha, Qatar organized under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Fahad Bin Jassim Al-Thani, The Minister of Business & Trade and H.E. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Jassim Al-Thani, President - Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The conference is the first of its kind in Qatar, focused on presentation of Qatar's CSR Project as mean to promote sustainable development and a new approach to business practices and the possibility of creating a network of local companies for promoting CSR principles and practices; and support companies already involved in social and environmental activities and encourage the establishment of corporate CSR departments. The conference was attended by renowned bankers, industrialists, analysts, economists, regulators, legislators etc.
Mr. R. Seetharaman, Chief Executive Officer – Doha Bank while talking on the Qatar's vision towards CSR, said 'Qatar's CSR vision is clearly embodied in its principles of Permanent Constitution. Qatar's CSR initiatives dates back to 1995 when Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al-Missned pronounced the balance required between material prosperity, prosperity of mind and habit for Qatar. These visions lead to the establishment of Qatar Foundation, which serves towards the human capital development for the residents of State of Qatar with world-class educational institutions providing excellent educational & research services. Further, being a member of the United Nation's Security Council, Qatar played key role in various mediations to bring unity and cooperation in the Middle East & North African region in last 5 years. Qatar was also conscious and has implemented various social development measures including creation of health care centers, addressing unique requirements of children requiring special attention, promoting knowledge society. Further, Qatar's development towards environmental friendly fuel i.e. LNG is note worthy and its recent drive towards a green culture are exceptional. In all respects Qatar is a classic case study for CSR initiatives balancing human, social, economic and environmental developments. Further, moving one step ahead Qatar has rightly fitted these in Qatar National Vision 2030'.
Mr. Seetharaman, also Doha Bank's CSR experience during the conference. He said 'For Doha Bank CSR is an essential part of our role as a responsible corporate citizen in the State of Qatar. For us how much money we make is not important but how we make it is more important. We believe our CSR initiatives not just strengthen our external brand image and communications, but more importantly provide avenues for us as an organization and our staffs to contribute positively to our community. The CSR initiatives, which Doha Bank has been undertaking since 2003, assumes great importance at a time when the focus is on improving the global business climate. The principles of social responsibility will encourage constructive competition between businesses, both through community service and by building closer ties between institutions to meet the objectives of local communities. These principles include complying with ethical behavior in commercial dealings, taking into consideration protection of the environment, human rights, combating corruption, and improving quality of life'.
He continued 'We are committed to our Qatarisation policy which includes progressively development of our Qatari National staffs including providing them international exposure in our overseas offices. We are also a proactive participant for supporting humanitarian causes. We have also been on the forefront for encouraging development of various sporting, cultural, professional education and knowledge forums. We are highly acclaimed and respected for organizing various knowledge dissemination forums including quiz programs, technical forums, environmental awareness etc., across the globe. In addition, we spear-headed the cause of knowledge dissemination, within the Arab region and extended the same across the globe in a phased manner, on Global Warming and Climate Change'.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Seetharaman said 'CSR is the main stream activity for all organizations with the changing face of the world. Public accountability in total respect plays the prime responsibility through socio-economic projects. Qatar in its vision has integrated Governance over the years and its commitment towards society is visible in multiple projects e.g. Qatar Foundation, Qatar Green Mission, Health Care, and drive towards energy efficient environment. Doha Bank will be an integral part of this mission and committed to align for social responsibility, we are delighted to be integral part of this conference in committing resources and personnel. CSR in the long-run will drive Gross Domestic Product to Gross Domestic Happiness'.
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