Doha: International Chamber of Commerce (ICC Qatar) successfully concluded its high-level two-day webinar titled "Navigating the Geopolitical Crisis: Legal, Governance, ESG Compliance and Risk Priorities for Qatar's Private Sector," which brought together more than 200 participants from across the business and professional community.
According to Qatar News Agency, the webinar brought together a distinguished group of participants representing banks, law firms, embassies, real estate and construction companies, consulting firms, as well as legal and governance experts, senior executives, board members, and risk professionals. The event commenced with opening remarks delivered by HE Secretary-General of ICC Qatar Sheikha Tamader Al-Thani, who emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges posed by significant geopolitical developments in the region.
The discussions focused on the legal, regulatory, and operational challenges currently facing businesses in Qatar and the wider Gulf region. Throughout the event, Mashael Al Sulaiti, Founder and Chairperson of Mashael Al Sulaiti Law Firm, and Elena Athwal, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ICELIS Global, highlighted the necessity for businesses to review contractual clauses and understand their legal position. They also stressed the importance of board oversight, compliance, and transparency.
Speakers at the webinar emphasized proactive risk assessment, robust contractual review, ESG considerations, and strengthened governance frameworks as essential strategies for resilience and compliance during uncertain times. The discussions also covered disruptions affecting the business landscape, such as global trade and supply chain challenges and evolving regulatory expectations.
Moreover, the necessity of monitoring regulatory developments and maintaining communication with supervisory authorities was underscored. The speakers also highlighted the importance of reassessing insurance coverage and addressing potential gaps, particularly in high-risk or conflict-affected jurisdictions.