Milipol Qatar 2018, the leading exhibition for homeland security and civil defence concluded successfully after its two-day stint at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre this week.
Aside from the exhibition, the event also hosted a series of panel discussions, and high-level interactions on the sidelines. Over 8,000 visitors came, and contracts worth QAR527.5 million, signed. Think-tanks and security experts from around the world joined discussions on cyber security and threats, civil defence, and security management of major events.
Deals and Agreements
Qatar signed a number of deals on the sidelines of the exhibition. Major General Nasser bin Fahad Al Thani, President of Milipol Qatar, signed a cooperation agreement with the chairman of GIE Milipol Yann Jounot and Renaud Hamaide, President of Comexposium.
The Security Systems Department of the Ministry of Interior (MOI) also signed a cooperation agreement with Swedish company Axis Communications, a leading manufacturer of high-quality surveillance cameras. The contract was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Jassem Al Sayed on behalf of MOI, and Axis Regional Manager for MENA, Philippe Kubinga.
The Security Committee of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy meanwhile, signed a training cooperation agreement with INTERPOL in cooperation with the University of Southern Mississippi. The agreement covers a six-subject programme for personnel in charge of security of major events. Those who will pass the programme will be granted a ‘Certificate of International Expert’.
Series of Seminars
The first in the series of seminars was presented by Emily Hough, editor-in-chief of Crisis Response Journal. Hough spoke about the general threats faced by societies and the role of leadership in protecting the public. She also pointed out the need to develop solutions and address concerns on climate change.
The issue of crises is also about epidemics and diseases, and the change that needs to be taken in order for countries to be better off. Disasters are damaging to reputation and sustainability, so today’s leaders need different skills when facing crises.’
The second paper of the seminar was presented by Chi Wah Wu of the Sham Tseng Fire Station. Chi explained the strategy and methods of fire fighting for high rise buildings in Hong Kong which are common because of the city’s size. Hong Kong, according to Chi, has two authorities that support the protection of these high rises. The first authority is in charge of the necessary equipment and the other authority is the construction department, one in charge of simple fire safety provisions and requirements for individual fire fighters.
The third paper of the seminar were presented by Dennis Davis, Advisor on Civil Protection Issues, and Tim Cutbill, Director of Protect and Prepare Ltd. The two experts discussed civil defence and the role of technology and community in protecting the state. The seminar wrapped up with a presentation of Commandant Frederic Harrault, from the French Ministry of Interior, on organisation of civil protection in France and real-time information.
Milipol Qatar in 2020
The 13th edition of Milipol Qatar will be held in 2020, and is expected to be as successful as this year’s edition. A total of 8,487 visitors attended the 2018 exhibition, an increase of 39% compared to the 2016 expo. Over 300 reporters from different parts of the world also covered the event. The total value of the contracts signed this year reached QAR527.5 million. This year’s exhibition has been more successful compared to previous years in terms of exhibition space, exhibitor participation and the diversity of participants.
For updates and information about Milipol Qatar, visit milipolqatar.com.