Qatar ready to cooperate with Nepal in building stadiums [Interview]

FIFA World Cup 2022 is underway in Qatar. The tiny Arab nation is receiving accolades worldwide for successfully hosting football’s biggest event. Some media, however, has criticized Qatar for the death of migrant workers in World Cup-related projects. As Qatar attracts billions of eyeballs, Himal Press talked to the Ambassador of Qatar to Nepal, Yousuf Mohamed Al Hail who also happens to be the Dean of the Diplomatic Corp in Nepal. Excerpts: 

Qatar is probably the most-criticized World Cup host ever. Even ex-FIFA President said it was a mistake to give Qatar the hosting right. How difficult is it to cope with these sorts of international pressure?

All organizing countries of the world cup tournaments before have met with criticism. That’s something expected. However, Qatar has exerted every possible effort to organize the world cup in the best way possible for the sake of sports and football fans for the values of tolerance and peace. We have brought huge reforms in the labor field. We listen to constructive comments but not unfair judgments. This is sports. It is not for politics or hate or racism. This event is to make humanity come close. We care only about these values and welcome everybody in Qatar.   

As per the reports, Qatar has invested more than $200 billion to build infrastructure. How beneficial will it be for a small country like Qatar?

The sports infrastructure and the other facilities are for the country’s future. It will continue in the coming generations. Qatar is working for Vision 2030 where we plan to establish a huge global sports city and host more international tournaments. Therefore, these efforts were not for World Cup 2022 only. 

What is your feeling about the World Cup coming to your homeland?

I’m proud to have the World Cup organized in Qatar. It is a historical event for Qatar, the Middle East, Arab world, and West Asia. The passion for football is strong in our region. I believe the legacy of this tournament will remain for generations to come.

Qatar has been helping Nepal and other poor countries in sports development. Can we expect bigger investments from Qatar, in Nepali sports? 

Qatar is involved with Nepal in football based on an MoU between the football associations of the two countries. We also have a bilateral MoU between the Olympic committees. Regarding football cooperation, Qatar has provided a coach for the Nepali national team and arranged for the treatment of players at Aspire Academy. Likewise, Qatar Airways has sponsored the national league of Nepal. Qatar is ready to cooperate with Nepal in building stadiums. However, we have not received the necessary documents.