QM, Brazilian embassy working on ‘Legacy of the Year’ project

Terming the festival as “a very good moment for bilateral relations,” the Brazilian diplomat hopes that her country’s culture will occupy a special place in Doha’s cultural scene.

Balbino said the project has been envisioned by HE Sheikha al-Mayassa bint Hamad al-Thani, chairperson of the QM’s Board of Trustees, who wants every Year of Culture to leave behind a legacy.

“From the perspective of the embassy, Brazil of course was well-known among expatriates and nationals, but mainly because of football,” she said, adding: “The Year of Culture extended their view about our country, about our culture, and that is very good, very positive.”

Also, most Brazilians and Qataris share the same passion – football, according to Balbino, who expressed optimism about the success of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The Qatar-Brazil Year of Culture concluded with a festival at the Museum of Islamic Art, which showcased numerous activities that attracted more than 30,000 visitors.

The celebration also featured photography exhibitions, a joint concert featuring the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and a Brazilian conductor, and a Brazilian cinema showcase.

She recalled that a number of cultural activities and shows were held during the Qatari Week in Sao Paulo.

Asked about any Arab influence in Brazil, Balbino said there is a huge Arab community in their country.

“There are about 50mn people and they are Arab descendants, not necessarily Arabs who migrated to Brazil but they are descendants,” she pointed out.

While Brazil is an open country for migration, she said a majority of nationals were Portuguese speakers. “It’s an interesting history of
migration.”

About bringing Brazilian performers to Doha, Balbino admitted they do not have concrete plans yet. But the embassy is considering cultural performances
similar to Thailand.