HEC Paris has concluded its inaugural research conference in Qatar, hosting more than 80 international researchers, academics and business leaders.

The conference’s theme, ‘Setting the Stage for a Knowledge-Based Economy in the Gulf – with a Focus on Qatar’, was hosted by HEC Paris’ Doha campus.

Organised with academic support from Qatar University (QU) and co-sponsored by Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF), the conference brought together local and international scholars to discuss the latest research findings and global experiences on the knowledge-based economy while focusing on the applicability of global best practices and knowledge in Qatar.

“Since the establishment of our dedicated Research Office at HEC Paris in Qatar in 2014, our research activities are all geared towards the building of a sustainable society in Qatar. More than a dozen case studies were developed on local and regional businesses. As a member of Qatar Foundation, HEC Paris is aimed at contributing positively to the fulfilment of the country’s National Vision 2030,” said Professor Laoucine Kerbache, dean and CEO, HEC Paris in Qatar.

Setting the tone for the proceedings, HE Dr Saleh bin Mohamed al-Nabit, Minister of Development Planning and Statistics, joined Dr Hassan al-Derham, president of QU, for a keynote session on ‘Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Knowledge-Based Economy’.

“This conference and its distinguished participants go a long way in supporting our efforts in encouraging Qatar’s growth through essential research and the sharing of best practice. By working together to diversify the nation’s economy and enhance educational offerings, it will create a benefit for the whole region,” said Dr Abdul Sattar al-Taie, executive director, QNRF.

Distinguished speakers and panelists during the event included Dr Tian Zhu, professor of Economics, China Europe International Business School, China; Dr Martin Hvidt, associate professor, Centre for Contemporary Middle East Studies, Southern Denmark University, Denmark; and Steven Geiger, founder of Innova Partners, US, and former original director of Masdar Institute, UAE; as well as representatives from ministries and leading academic institutes in Qatar and the GCC.