Representatives of eight resident communities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the SC pledging support to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, adding to the 30 resident communities who had extended their support for the tournament. Croatia, Poland, Japan, Indian Sports Centre, Palestine, Ethiopia, Uganda and Jamaica are the new signatories.
“In 2017, the launch of the Khalifa International Stadium in May, the staging of a community festival on the sidelines of the Qatar vs Iran 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier in March, and many other events would not have been successful had it not been for the enormous contributions made by Qatar’s resident communities,” recalled al-Thawadi.
“The passion shown by the communities in assisting us over the last few years is an example of the success of the SC’s community partnership programme. I admire the commitment they have shown as we work towards the common goal of making the 2022 FIFA World Cup a success.”
Al Thawadi added the solidarity shown by the resident communities of the host nation of the 2022 World Cup enshrines the spirit of the historic tournament: “That is the essence of what the Qatar World Cup is all about – showcasing the richness, diversity and, of course, the passion and commitment of the communities living in Qatar.”
The SC secretary-general also congratulated the 80 shortlisted finalists of the SC’s sports photography course who were in attendance.
SC Community Engagement manager Khalid al-Jumaily welcomed the communities who signed the MoU: “The success of the World Cup is not just the pitches and the stadiums, rail and road infrastructure -- it is the people, our community, our society. The resident communities of Qatar will contribute to that story as they are instrumental in building this country’s success.”
Al-Jumaily also emphasised the legacy benefits of the Community Partnerships initiative. “The programme was established in 2015 to facilitate dialogue with Qatar’s diverse communities, ensuring the interests of all residents of Qatar are considered when planning for the legacy that the World Cup will leave, serving generations to come.”
Youth Hobbies Centre deputy director Dr Issa al-Horr also spoke on the occasion, highlighting the legacy elements of the SC’s sports photography programme.
Hassan al-Thawadi addressing the gathering.
Showcasing the richness and diversity of the communities residing in Qatar is the essence of the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar, according to the secretary-general of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) Hassan al-Thawadi. Addressing Monday’s Suhoor gathering organised by SC’s Community Engagement team for the leaders of the resident communities of Qatar, he complimented the communities for the passion and commitment displayed in extending their support to the first ever World Cup in the Middle East.
