Qatar praised by Canada as Forum for the Future host

Manama: Canada's foreign minister has heaped praise on Qatar as the next host of the Broader Middle East and North Africa (BMENA) Forum for the Future.

"Qatar is a good choice as host of the next BMENA Forum for the Future because of its recognised role in facilitating the African Union-United Nations mediation process on Darfur," Lawrence Cannon said as he announced that Qatar has agreed to being the host in 2010.

The forum will be held during Canada’s G8 presidency in 2010. Cannon made the announcement at the conclusion of the 2009 Forum, held in Marrakesh, Morocco, on November 2-3.

"This forum upheld the principle that political and economic freedoms ultimately serve to strengthen regional stability and security," said Cannon.

"Canada also shares the participants' commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East," the Canadian minister said in a statement posted by Canada’s foreign ministry.

"The Forum for the Future brings together the countries of the broader Middle East and North Africa region and those of the G8. It is part of the BMENA Initiative launched at the 2004 G8 Summit, where the G8 countries stressed their commitment to supporting reforms in the region and to establishing informal, flexible, open and inclusive dialogue with the BMENA countries. The Forum is the only one of its type in the region, where a parallel civil society dialogue provides input on reforms and works with governments on implementation," the ministry said.

"Canada understands the need to address such global challenges, and we are committed to working in full partnership with the BMENA countries and with the G8 to promote freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law," said Cannon.

Canada has pledged $50 million to support projects currently under way in the BMENA region that further development in the private sector, improved governance and basic education.