The Maldives has congratulated Qatar for being the first Muslim country to host the FIFA World Cup 2022. Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid made the remark in a message sent to Deputy Prime Minister of Qatar Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on the eve of the opening of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
In the message, Minister Shahid said he is pleased to send good wishes and warm congratulations to the government and the people of Qatar, on the eve of the opening of the World Cup. He said it is a matter of immense pride that Qatar is the first Muslim country, and only the second Asian country to host the World Cup. He said that the Maldives is also extremely proud of the fact that Qatar is the smallest country to host the World Cup, which he said is a fact that demonstrates the capability and ability of small states to make meaningful contributions in every field.
Minister Shahid congratulated the Qatari people for the excellent preparations for the World Cup 2022, especially during a time of recovery from a global pandemic. He also applauded the government of Qatar’s efforts to enhance sustainability during the World Cup, including in energy use, waste management, and infrastructure. He added that the people of the Maldives look forward to an entertaining and successful World Cup 2022, and wish the people of Qatar success.