Minister of Transport Inaugurates ICAO Facilitation Conf. 2025
Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Transport H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani today inaugurated the ICAO Facilitation Conference (FALC 2025), hosted by the State of Qatar and organized by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).ICAO FALC 2025 is attended by more than 120 ministers and aviation authority chiefs from around the world and numerous high-profile officials, experts and leaders representing civil aviation industry in 190 countries.Held under the theme “Facilitating the Future of Air Transport: Collaboration, Efficiency, Inclusivity,” the conference offers a unique platform for states and aviation industry stakeholders to explore advancements in air transport facilitation. It encourages dialogue on improving cooperation and operational efficiency in global air travel, while fostering collaboration among participants to develop a comprehensive global facilitation strategy that can adapt to the sector’s rapid evolution.The ICAO Facilitation Conference is distinguished by its High-Level Ministerial Segment, which sets the strategic tone for the event and reaffirms global commitment to strengthening air transport facilitation. This segment provides a key platform for ministers to discuss and endorse initiatives aimed at connecting communities and enhancing seamless international mobility.In his welcome address, Minister of Transport H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani emphasized the importance of hosting the 2025 ICAO Facilitation Conference at a time when the civil aviation industry is facing increasing challenges. He noted that reinforcing operational resilience, responding to regulatory and economic shifts, and embracing digital transformation have emerged as strategic priorities. The conference, he said, serves as a pivotal platform for developing innovative and proactive solutions to drive a more efficient and sustainable global air transport system.Speaking on the significance of Doha hosting the event, the Minister noted that Qatar’s hosting of such a major conference highlights the country’s strong commitment to civil aviation as a cornerstone of economic growth and enhanced regional and global connectivity.Lauding Hamad International Airport and Qatar Airways, the minister said that HIA, the winner of numerous world awards, is symbolic of the country’s commitment to providing a world-class infrastructure for an exceptional passenger experience, and Qatar Airways, named the world’s best airline for several years, embodies such a commitment in the form of offering an integrated travel experience based on latest traveller data systems that helped cut wait time, and improve security check procedures, in addition to being a main partner to global facilitation initiatives in association with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), thereby putting best universal practices in place.H.E. the Minister invited participants to take full advantage of this opportunity to deepen international cooperation and engage in productive discussions that lead to meaningful collaboration and impactful solutions for improving air transport facilitation and the traveller experience.He also invited ministers and senior officials to the High-Level Ministerial Segment, where a joint ministerial declaration will be announced. This declaration aims to promote a unified and comprehensive approach to air transport facilitation, support future initiatives, and ensure continued progress based on shared strategic principles.In his address, Mr. Mohamed bin Faleh Al-Hajri, In Charge of Managing QCAA, welcomed all attendees to Doha. He emphasized Qatar’s emergence as a global aviation leader, driven not only by its advanced infrastructure but also by its intellectual leadership, active engagement in ICAO initiatives, and ongoing efforts to raise international standards in the sector.Mr. Al-Hajri emphasized the importance of the conference’s theme, stating: “It underscores the need for collaborative efforts to achieve efficiency, inclusivity, and resilience in the transport of passengers and cargo, ensuring smooth and secure global movement.” He added: “This is not just an operational necessity but a key factor in strengthening the aviation sector’s role and its positive impact on the global economy. It drives connectivity between nations, particularly as the industry undergoes significant transformation and rapid technological advancement. This requires a proactive, cooperative approach to address emerging challenges and capitalize on new opportunities in air transport facilitation.” Mr. Al-Hajri also reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to advancing international facilitation through active participation in ICAO activities and involvement in various technical committees and working groups.Furthermore, Mr. Al-Hajri drew attention to the value of the conference sessions, which will focus on addressing vital topics for the development of air transport facilitation. He emphasized that fostering international cooperation is key to strengthening the global aviation system’s resilience and adaptability. This approach aligns with ICAO’s vision to advance the sector, and he urged all member states and participants to engage in open dialogue that promotes the exchange of experiences, best practices, and practical solutions to support global facilitation frameworks.Over its four-day program, the ICAO Facilitation Conference will feature numerous sessions covering key issues related to cooperation and coordination among relevant authorities in the field of facilitation. Topics include cargo release clearance and automation processes, travel document integrity and border control, addressing inadmissible persons, deportees, refugees and stateless persons, combating human trafficking and irregular migration, assistance to aircraft accident victims and their families, capacity building and implementation support for states, and innovation in facilitation. The conference will conclude with the announcement of the adoption of the Doha Declaration on Facilitation of International Air Transport.Accompanying the conference will be an exhibition featuring participation from various organizations and companies, offering a unique opportunity to showcase the latest procedures and technologies in air transport facilitation.
