Doha, Qatar, 20 Jan. 2026

The Middle East Naval Commanders Conference (MENC) convened today as part of the ninth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026), bringing together senior naval commanders, defence officials, diplomats, and academic experts to examine evolving maritime security challenges and the growing role of defence diplomacy.

The conference was organised in collaboration with the Joaan Bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies. The event took place at the State of the Art , Qatar National Convention Centre. Present on the occasion were Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs; Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Lt. Gen. (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of the Qatar Armed Forces, alongside high-level delegations, ministers, ambassadors, and specialists from across the globe.

Addressing participants, Sheikh Saoud highlighted that the conference theme, “Defence Diplomacy and Maritime Security Challenges,” reflects the close link between diplomatic engagement and maritime security. He stressed that contemporary security threats—ranging from regional conflicts and transnational crime to cyber risks and the protection of global supply chains—cannot be addressed by military power alone. Defence diplomacy, he noted, provides a vital framework for dialogue, trust-building, and sustained cooperation, helping to reduce escalation risks and strengthen stability even during times of tension.

He further emphasised that regional security requires balanced approaches combining military readiness with effective diplomacy, underpinned by respect for sovereignty, good neighbourliness, and international law. In this context, Qatar continues to position itself as a trusted platform for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, contributing to regional and international stability through partnership and mediation.

In his welcoming remarks, Brig. Gen. (Dr) Rajeh Mohammed bin Aqeel Al-Nabet, President of the Joaan Bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies, underscored that maritime security is a shared responsibility. He noted that modern maritime threats are increasingly interconnected and transnational, demanding comprehensive responses that integrate hard power with diplomacy, multilateral cooperation, and the exchange of expertise. He expressed confidence that the conference would generate practical, evidence-based insights to enhance maritime security and sustainability.

The conference featured two high-level sessions. The first, moderated by journalist Adrian Finighan, included His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who highlighted the need for close coordination between diplomacy, defence, and regional partners to safeguard sea lanes and coastal states. Naval leaders and academics echoed this view, stressing that complex maritime threats—from illicit activities to hybrid challenges—require political dialogue alongside naval capabilities.

The second session focused on lessons learned from recent maritime crises, the limits of technology, hybrid threats, and the impact of insecurity on global supply chains and energy markets. Speakers highlighted the importance of collective action, transparency, and stronger regional mechanisms.

The Middle East Naval Commanders Conference continues to serve as a key platform for addressing maritime security challenges, reinforcing Qatar’s role as a hub for defence diplomacy and international cooperation.