QCB governor honoured with ‘Freedom of the City of London’ award

HE the Qatar Central Bank Governor Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud al-Thani, received the “Freedom of the City of London” award, a title of privilege that dates back to the 13th century. 
Sheikh Abdulla was recognised for the QCB’s large contribution and investment into the City of London. 
He joins a list of prominent figures who have been awarded the Freedom of the City, including Florence Nightingale, JK Rowling, Bill Gates, and Nelson Mandela.
Lord Mayor Peter Estlin said, “I am delighted to have presided over the Governor of Qatar Central Bank HE Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud al-Thani receiving the Freedom of the City of London today. I had the pleasure of meeting HE Sheikh Saoud earlier this year when the City hosted Qatar Day, at which we discussed the bright future we have ahead of us and the potential to collaborate more deeply in emerging areas such as fintech and cyber. 
“He has made an outstanding contribution to developing the relationship in financial services between the UK and Qatar, bringing mutual prosperity to both of our countries, and I look forward to seeing this partnership go from strength-to-strength in the years ahead.”
Sheikh Abdulla said, “It is a great privilege to be awarded this prestigious honour alongside so many distinguished predecessors. The ever growing trade, financial and educational relationships between Doha and the City Of London is testament to the strength of our bond and I am very grateful to the City of London for this recognition.”
British ambassador Ajay Sharma said, “That this prestigious honour has been conferred upon His Excellency the Governor of Qatar Central Bank is testament to the important role the Governor has played in developing the historic relationship between the UK and Qatar. He has made a huge contribution to fostering even stronger ties between between the City of London and Qatar’s financial services sector, from banking to education to cyber and fintech.”
A unique part of London’s history, the Freedom ceremony dates back to 1237 and was once very important to economic trading rights in the City. Today it is a symbolic award in recognition of outstanding achievements and contributions to London life.