By Ayman Adly
Thousands of locals and expatriates turned up at Katara – the Cultural Village last night to attend the Gaza solidarity festival and show their support for the people of Palestine.
The gathering at the Katara Amphitheatre brought together heads of diplomatic missions, Qatari and other Arab artists, musicians, poets as well as a large number of Doha residents, including many Palestinians, to express support for the endurance and resistance of the people of Gaza against Israeli aggression and occupation.
The event was marked by solemn speeches, recitation and artistic performances.
It was also an opportunity to make donations for the cause, with leading organisations making significant contributions.
Katara general manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti addressed the gathering and thanked them for responding to the call for taking part in this humanitarian endeavour.
“Through this festival, we express support for our wounded people suffering in Gaza and facing the worst humanitarian disaster on earth. It is an integral part of Katara’s mission to serve humanity through art and culture. We have made sure with our partners Qatar Red Crescent, Qatar TV and other organisations and charities that the donation and support campaign for Gaza would go on,” he stressed.
Dr al-Sulaiti said restaurants at Katara and Aspire Zone would donate their income for the night to help the people of Gaza. The outcome will be announced this afternoon in collaboration with local charities.
Palestinian ambassador Munir Ghanim lauded the spirit of resistance and endurance of the people of Gaza. He said they had set an example for the whole world, thereby winning the sympathy and support of everyone.
He appreciated the efforts of Qatar, its government and people in supporting the cause in all possible ways and for playing a pioneering role in this process.
“HH the Emir has exerted great and constant efforts with all stakeholders on the issue and holds intensive communication to arrive at a resolution,” he said, calling on the United Nations and the global community to take a decisive stand on what is happening in Palestine.
Hamas representative Hossam Badran was warmly received by the audience and given a round of applause.
He extended special thanks to Qatar and its efforts in support of the cause.
Various organisations, companies and individuals announced donations through the night. Barwa Bank donated QR2.5mn, Qatargas QR2mn, Qafco QR1mn, Woqod QR2mn and RasGas QR2mn, among several others.
The participants stressed that everyone should give something in view of the critical human situation so as to alleviate the suffering of people.
“This is part of our heritage and tradition to help people in need. Qatar has always supported the cause of the vulnerable so I am proud to take part in the event and do what I can to help,” said Mohamed al-Yafai, a Qatari man who was one of the organisers of the event.
Ayad Abdulrahman, a Canadian-Palestinian expatriate, said he was eager to attend the event and express support for the cause.
A large number of families were at the venue, including children, who expressed their support for the initiative by waving both the Qatari and Palestinian flags.
